Hensley Cloninger & Greer, P.C. is proud to announce that a jury has awarded a $1.36 million verdict on behalf of our client. Our firm is proud to represent our clients and continues to work tirelessly to support their best interests and protect their rights.
The Case
A 70-year-old man died after suffering a cardiac arrest during a colonoscopy procedure at High Point Endoscopy Center. The anesthesia provider, Jennifer Humphreys, used deep sedation with Propofol, and the patient's heart rate dropped to 40 during the procedure. Despite attempts to restore normal heart rate and oxygen levels, the patient never regained consciousness and died seven days later due to hypoxic-ischemic brain injury caused by cardiac arrest.
The defense argued that stimulation of the colon during the colonoscopy caused a vagal reflex leading to cardiac arrest due to the patient's pre-existing heart disease. However, the plaintiff's counsel suggested that the anesthesia provider failed to recognize and resolve an airway obstruction, which caused low oxygen levels (hypoxia), the most common cause of cardiac arrest during such procedures.
Discrepancies between the Anesthesia Record, a statement from a second CRNA who assisted during the procedure, and the EMS record raised doubts about the accuracy and reliability of the provider's account of events. The patient's improvement after an alternate airway device was used by EMS personnel further supported the claim that respiratory issues were involved.
Testimonies from the decedent's treating cardiologist, ER doctor, ICU doctor, and critical care PA all suggested that his heart functioned normally when receiving adequate oxygen and could not have been solely responsible for causing the cardiac arrest. The jury deliberated for over six hours before returning the verdict.
Trusted Guidance, Fierce Advocacy
Our team carefully investigated this case and uncovered countless inconsistencies that played a major role in the final verdict. Through a tireless commitment to excellence, we were able to help our client bring the negligent parties to justice.
With over 30 years of experience, our team fights to protect our clients from entities seeking to rush our clients toward an unfair settlement. We have helped countless clients get the settlements they deserve and the peace of mind they need.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligence, contact Hensley Cloninger & Greer, P.C.