In years past, doctors were often unable to help individuals diagnosed with certain chronic medical conditions such as heart disease. Today, advances in medical technology have vastly improved the chances of survival for patients suffering many chronic diseases and illnesses. In many cases, surgical procedures in which stents and valves are inserted into a patient's heart provide the medical answer to whether a patient lives or dies. However, when medical errors occur during or after these types of medical procedures, patients may suffer permanent injury or even death.

The family of a man who underwent a heart valve replacement surgery recently filed a medical malpractice lawsuit against the hospital where the man was treated. According to the lawsuit, the man underwent a surgical procedure at the hospital to have medical device known as a valve inserted into his heart.

Aimed to improve the man's heart function, instead the implanted valve caused a massive infection. The man was readmitted to the hospital. Sadly, he subsequently passed away from complications related to the bacterial infection.

The man's grief-stricken family members have filed a medical malpractice lawsuit against the hospital in which they accuse the hospital of negligence. Included in the lawsuit, are allegations that medical staff failed to properly sterilize the medical device prior to the surgery. Also raised in the lawsuit, are questions related to the condition of the surgical environment.

The family members are suing to recover compensation related to pain and suffering caused by the loss of their loved one. Additionally, the lawsuit seeks to recover compensation related to medical expenses and funeral costs.

Source: The Southeast Texas Record, "Man dies from infection 10 months after surgery, family sues Christus," David Yates, June 3, 2013