A jury awarded $750,000 in damages to Mary Shea who suffered permanent harm after a hip replacement surgery at Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital in Ellsworth, according to a March 2, WPFO FOX23 Maine report.
The jury found orthopedic surgeon Peter Copithorne, MD, and the hospital liable for negligent care that resulted in long-term impairment and $291,000 in medical bills. During follow-up care in 2019, Dr. Copithorne failed to read the correct X-ray, delaying revision surgery and leading to further complications, including a centimeter-long gap left in Shea’s femur.
Three physicians testified the delayed intervention caused muscle atrophy and avoidable damage. The jury deliberated for under four hours following a three-day trial. Civil verdicts in Maine do not require unanimous agreement.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.