Professional Negligence Law Reporter

While undergoing a laparoscopic hysterectomy, Doe was placed in the dorsal lithotomy position with her lower extremities in Allen stirrups. Both of her arms were pronated and placed at her sides. When her anesthesia wore off, Doe complained of pain and a dramatic sensory change in her right arm. A physician allegedly informed Doe and her husband that Doe’s arm had dropped down during the procedure and remained extended for the last hour of the surgery.

Doe was later diagnosed as having suffered a right partial brachial plexus injury resulting from positional stretching. She continues to suffer loss of strength in her arm.

Doe alleged a health care provider was liable for her stretch injury.

The parties reached a settlement in the amount of $300,000 before litigation.

Citation: Doe v. Roe, Confidential Dkt. No. (Va. Confidential Ct. 2022).

Claimant counsel: AAJ member Thomas M. Wochok and William E. Artz, both of Tysons Corner, Va.