Florida Surgeon Liver Spleen: In a shocking and heartbreaking case out of Florida, a surgeon is facing serious allegations after a woman’s claim that her late husband’s liver was mistakenly removed instead of his spleen during a surgical procedure, ultimately leading to his death. Beverly Bryan’s accusations against Dr. Thomas Shaknovsky and Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Hospital raise significant questions about patient safety and surgical procedures.
The Tragic Turn of Events
William Bryan, a 70-year-old resident of Muscle Shoals, Alabama, sought medical attention while vacationing in Okaloosa County, Florida, on August 18, 2024. He was admitted to the hospital for what was initially described as “severe abdominal pain.” His condition quickly escalated, prompting discussions about surgery for intra-abdominal hemorrhage associated with a ruptured splenic artery aneurysm and cardiac arrest.
Despite initial reluctance to undergo surgery, Bryan ultimately agreed after extensive discussions with the hospital staff and his wife. According to the Operative Documentation provided by Zarzaur Law, the law firm representing Beverly, Bryan’s case was thoroughly reviewed before they proceeded with the planned laparoscopic hand-assisted splenectomy.
The Operative Procedure Gone Wrong
During the operation, Dr. Shaknovsky discovered that the spleen was severely deformed and decided to convert the procedure to an open surgery. However, complications arose due to extensive blood loss, which caused Bryan’s blood pressure to plummet, resulting in cardiac arrest. In a shocking turn of events, the subsequent surgical pathology report indicated that it was Bryan’s liver that had been removed instead of the intended spleen. The report confirmed that what was preserved in the solution labeled “spleen” was, in fact, a 2,106 g liver.
Investigations and Reactions
Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Hospital released a statement addressing the allegations, stating, “We take allegations like this very seriously, and our leadership team is performing a thorough investigation into this event.” The hospital emphasized its commitment to patient safety and quality care since it opened in 2003, extending its thoughts and prayers to the Bryan family during this difficult time.
Beverly Bryan, devastated by the loss of her husband, expressed her anguish through her lawyer, stating, “My husband died while helpless on the operating room table by Dr. Shaknovsky.” The family is currently navigating the legal complexities of pursuing justice for what they believe was a tragic error in medical care.
Legal and Medical Implications
In Florida, the legal process requires a pre-suit procedure before filing a lawsuit, which can involve a panel including an attorney, healthcare provider, and claims adjuster. While the Operative Documentation does not explicitly confirm that the liver was removed in error, it raises serious concerns about the surgical practices and decision-making processes in such high-stakes situations.
This case highlights the vital importance of communication between medical professionals and patients, as well as the potential consequences when such communication fails. Surgical errors can lead to life-altering, if not fatal, outcomes, and they underline the need for rigorous safety protocols in hospitals.
Conclusion
The allegations against Dr. Shaknovsky and the hospital have opened a conversation about surgical protocols and patient rights in the face of potential medical negligence. As the investigation continues, many will be watching closely to see how this tragic case unfolds and what it means for the future of patient safety in Florida and beyond. The Bryan family’s fight for answers serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the critical need for accountability in the medical field.
