Suffolk County (NY) Supreme Court
Following laparoscopy to treat endometriosis, a 32-year-old woman was unable to void spontaneously. Nevertheless, her gynecologists approved her discharge and the patient returned home.
The following day, the woman presented to the emergency room, noting a continued inability to void. Hospital staff removed 1,000 mL of urine via catheterization, but her retention was never resolved. She remains unable to void and thus requires catheterization.
In suing, the woman claimed bladder distention caused muscle damage leading to urinary retention. She also noted that the physician ordered her hospital discharge without providing clear instructions regarding her voiding difficulties.
The defendant argued the woman’s problem was likely neurologic and unrelated to his care.
- The jury returned a defense verdict.