$750,000 Settlement After Woman is Blinded in Right Eye After Cataract Surgery

Phelan Petty’s Jonathan M. Petty secured a $750,000 settlement for a woman who suffered permanent blindness in her right eye after cataract surgery.

Case background

The plaintiff, a 53-year-old woman, underwent cataract surgery on her left eye by the defendant ophthalmologist without complication. She experienced no pain or discomfort after the surgery. One week later, the defendant performed cataract surgery on her right eye. Shortly after leaving the ambulatory surgery center, the patient experienced pain in the eye and a headache. She called the office to report her symptoms and was instructed to take her eye patch off and administer eye drops. Approximately two hours later, the patient called back, reporting that she still had pain, that her eye was swollen shut, and that the area was blackened. She was instructed to use a cool compress, to stay in a recliner with her head elevated, and to return to the office the following morning for evaluation. When she presented the next day, she was blind in the right eye with no light perception. The condition is permanent.

The patient experienced a retrobulbar hemorrhage, or bleeding in the area of the eye, likely as a result of the administration of anesthesia for the cataract surgery. This bled into a confined space, which resulted in pressure on the optic nerve analogous to compartment syndrome. This is a known complication of cataract surgery and is a surgical emergency. The standard of care in this situation was for the surgeon to immediately see the patient and perform canthotomy and cantholysis, which is a simple surgical procedure to relieve the pressure in the eye before irreversible damage is done to the optic nerve. The plaintiff’s expert stated that the defendant’s failure to provide this remedial treatment on time was the cause of her permanent blindness.

The case settled on July 8, 2021, in mediation for $750,000 on behalf of the plaintiff.

Importance of holding medical providers accountable

Holding medical providers accountable for malpractice is essential for ensuring patient safety, maintaining trust in the healthcare system, and preventing future negligence. When doctors, nurses, or hospitals fail to meet the standard of care, the consequences can be devastating — leading to severe injuries, long-term complications, or even wrongful death. Pursuing legal action not only helps victims and their families secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering but also sends a powerful message that negligence will not be tolerated.

How our medical malpractice attorneys can help

Our medical malpractice attorneys are dedicated to helping victims and their families seek justice and fair compensation. We conduct thorough investigations, working with medical experts to identify negligence and build a strong case. Our team gathers critical evidence, including medical records and expert testimony, to prove how a healthcare provider’s failure to meet the standard of care led to harm. We handle negotiations with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement, but if necessary, we are fully prepared to take cases to trial. Throughout the process, we provide compassionate support, guiding our clients every step of the way.

If you believe a medical provider’s error led to avoidable complications, contact us for a free consultation.