Family Sues Hospital and Surgeon Over Man's Death After Gallbladder Surgery

Father of two died after complications from common operation -- and his family blames the surgeon

The family of a South Florida father of two who died after common surgery is suing the surgeon and North Shore Medical Center.

Anonio Roa went to North Shore on June 28, 2007, complaining of pain on his right side. Dr. Gary Glick performed laparoscopic gall bladder surgery, one of the most common operations in the U.S., days later on July 3.

Roa was dead on July 19.

Among other allegations, the suit claims Glick caused injury to a bile duct during the operation. Widow Flavia Roa says a private autopsy she ordered indicates Road died from complications of post-operative biliary leak.

“And if you don't repair it immediately -- unfortunately, in this case it was about five days before it was recognized -- the patient has about a 95 percent chance of dying," said the family's attorney, Spencer Aronfeld.

The surgery is often done as an outpatient procedure, or at most with just one night in the hospital.  But as with all surgeries, problems can develop.

Roa's widow claims her husband was very swollen when he came out of the initial surgery, and was in a lot of pain. His daughter Liz, who was 11 when her father died, said the turn was unexpected.

"They told us that he was going to be okay, but afterward I guess everything got complicated," she said.

Glick's attorney said the suit doesn't hold water.

"The allegations are meritless and we intend to prove it in a court of law," said Jonathan Midwall. "Dr. Glick is an excellent surgeon who has privileges to practice at some of the top hospital here in South Florida. We know Dr. Glick provided absolutely appropriate care in this case, and this has independently been confirmed by a top surgeon practicing here in South Florida."

Tenet Healthcare issued a statement on the hospital's behalf, saying Roa "was properly treated by his surgeon...and the complications that developed were immediately and properly investigated by numerous doctors and all efforts were made to save his life.

"Unfortunately, Mr. Roa's condition declined very rapidly despite appropriate and timely intervention."

Aronfeld, who is representing the family after another firm withdrew from the case, says there are missing hospital documents related to Roa's care.

According to online records of the Florida Department of Health, Glick's license to practice is clear and active.

A court date has not yet been set in the case.

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