Surgery patient sues facility for bedsores

BEAUMONT – A Jefferson County consumer is suing a medical facility for alleged liability in a 2013 medical issue.

Lester Owens filed a lawsuit on April 8 against the Medical Center of Southeast Texas, in Jefferson County District Court, claiming negligence following a February 2013 procedure.

The plaintiff was admitted to the defendant’s facility in Port Arthur to undergo a bilateral knee replacement on or about Feb. 4, 2013. He was given a morphine pain pump and catheterized, according to court documents, but suffered from skin breakdown which developed into decubitus ulcers.

Released on Feb. 7, Owens was assessed by a home health nurse, who noted Stage II pressure ulcers on his lower back. Referred to wound care at a nearby hospital, he received treatment until March.

The plaintiff alleges that he was not turned sufficiently by staff at the defendant’s facility; that his bedsores, left undiagnosed and untreated, ultimately worsened, causing him to suffer great pain as a result. The lawsuit maintains that his condition could have been avoided with proper treatment.

Citing physical pain and suffering, anguish, discomfort, impairment and disfigurement, the plaintiff seeks: unspecified compensation for damages; pre- and post-judgment interest; attorney’s fees; expenses; and costs. Owens is represented by Collin Cobb of Harris, Duesler and Hatfield of Beaumont.

Jefferson County District Court case no. D-196976