Woman suing Huntington surgeon for negligence

HUNTINGTON -- A woman is suing a Huntington surgeon for negligence after several incidents in 2007.

Evelyn Adkins underwent surgery on June 28, 2007, by Dr. James H. Morgan III at St. Mary's Medical Center for symptomatic biliary colic, according to a complaint filed Nov. 9 in Cabell Circuit Court.

Adkins returned to the ER with severe abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting on July 1, where Morgan performed an open repair of an incarcerated incisional hernia and resected a portion of ischemic small intestine that was trapped in the umbilical port site.

On July 17, Adkins was found to be septic and a laparotomy revealed a large infected hematoma and anastomotic leak, which required small bowel resection, placement of a feeding tube and removal of the hematoma.

According to the suit, Adkins remained septic and was transferred to Ohio State University for treatment of her multisystem organ failure and sepsis for a prolonged course that required ventilator support and tracheotomy.

Adkins claims Morgan owed duty to her to skillfully, prudently and thoroughly diagnose, care, treat, advise and observe her as he would other patients in similar conditions and circumstances.

Adkins claims as a result of Morgan's negligence she has been disabled and forced to suffer impaired strength; has been severely disfigured due to extensive surgery and will have permanent scarring; has been forced to incur many medical and associated expenses; has suffered a great deal of mental pain and anguish; has been forced to endure severe pain; and suffered permanent loss of health and ability to enjoy life.

She is suing for compensatory and punitive damages Lonnie C. Simmons and Heather M. Langeland of Di Trapano, Barrett & DiPiero are representing her.

The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge F. Jane Hustead.

Cabell Circuit Court case number: 09-C-892