Lawsuit Alleges Negligence Led to Prolonged Hospital Stay, Infection, and Emotional Distress
An Atlanta couple has filed a lawsuit against Emory University Hospital Midtown, alleging that the hospital lost a crucial portion of a patient’s skull following brain surgery. The suit claims this negligence resulted in extended hospital stays, infections, and significant physical and emotional suffering.
Fernando and Maria Cluster, the plaintiffs, accused the hospital staff of failing to properly identify and preserve the bone fragment, known as a “bone flap,” which was removed during emergency brain surgery in September 2022. The complaint, filed in DeKalb County, Georgia, alleges that the missing bone flap led to severe complications, including the need for additional surgeries and a prolonged recovery.
Emergency surgery and missing bone flap
Fernando Cluster was admitted to Emory Healthcare in September 2022 after suffering from an intracerebral hemorrhage, a serious condition involving bleeding within the brain. To alleviate the pressure and treat the hemorrhage, surgeons removed a 12-by-15-centimeter section of his skull, intending to reattach it during a follow-up surgery scheduled for November.
However, when the time came for the second operation, hospital staff allegedly encountered a serious issue—they could not locate the original bone flap. The lawsuit claims that “several bone flaps with incomplete or missing patient identification” were discovered, leaving the medical team unable to determine which, if any, belonged to Mr. Cluster.
As a result, surgeons were forced to implant a synthetic bone flap, which the suit claims later caused an infection, necessitating yet another surgery. The couple alleges that the mishandling of the bone flap led to a significantly extended hospital stay and additional medical complications.
Financial and emotional impact
The lawsuit details the financial burden the Clusters have faced due to the hospital’s alleged negligence. According to the complaint, Mr. Cluster has incurred over $146,000 in medical expenses, including charges for the synthetic bone flap and the extended hospital stay. The suit also claims that Cluster has been unable to work since the surgery, has suffered permanent injuries, and that his family life has been adversely affected.
The Clusters are seeking both general and special damages, although the lawsuit does not specify an exact amount. General damages are typically awarded for non-economic harms, such as emotional distress and diminished quality of life, while special damages cover specific economic losses.
Hospital’s response
A spokesperson for Emory Healthcare provided a statement to CNN, saying that the hospital does not comment on pending litigation but emphasized the institution’s commitment to providing “high-quality, compassionate care for patients and those we serve in our communities.”
As the lawsuit moves forward, it highlights the significant consequences of medical errors and the impact they can have on patients’ lives. The case will likely continue to draw attention as it progresses through the legal system.