HOUSTON — A continuance has been granted in a lawsuit alleging a man fell off the operating table twice during hernia surgery.
Robert Powell filed a complaint April 28, 2021 in Harris County District Court against Methodist Health Centers, doing business as Houston Methodist Willowbrook, alleging negligence.
Court records show the case was set for trial on Oct. 24. On Sept. 9, however, the trial court entered an order resetting the trial to Feb. 20, 2023.
Court records further show that the parties entered an agreed motion for continuance on Sept. 9, stating that they have actively engaged in discovery including fact witness depositions. However, despite diligent and cooperative efforts, they’ve encountered some unforeseen issues in obtaining medical records.
The motion also stated that Powell recently had surgery and is still recovering.
Case background
Powell underwent surgery for a stomach hernia at Houston Methodist Willowbrook on Aug. 26, 2020, according to his suit. He alleges that during surgery, his 280 pound body slipped off the operating table.
Powell claims that the surgical team "caught" him and then tied his legs to the operating table but then slipped off again, fell to the ground and smashed his head, shoulder and face on the floor.
He further claims "ten people" lifted him back onto the operating table and that when he came out of the anesthesia, he was in "severe pain with a swollen head and face.”
Powell alleges he continues to have "cognitive issues" and has required neuropsychological treatment and claims the surgical team's negligence in failing to properly secure him on the operating table.
Powell seeks monetary relief of more than $1 million, interest and all other just relief.
Harris County District Court case number 2021-25251