Patient sues for finger surgery complications

A Brazoria County resident brought a lawsuit against a health center for alleged medical malpractice in 2014.

Jose Martinez of Galveston filed a complaint against the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston County District Court on May 15, claiming malpractice in February 2014.

Martinez underwent a trigger finger release and tendon reconstructive surgery on two fingers on Feb. 19, 2014, the lawsuit states. In May he allegedly developed a minor complication and brought it to his doctor’s attention.

According to the lawsuit, the surgeon’s assistant attended to what appeared to be excess stitch material, pressing down on the plaintiff’s finger to remove the suture. In late June, Martinez’s fingers began to swell and throb with pain. When he sought treatment on June 26, the plaintiff alleges that the doctor stated that the assistant had used the wrong kind of stitching material.

The grievance states that Martinez was hospitalized for corrective treatment for six days, receiving antibiotics and pain medication. When his condition continued, he was seen again on July 22, readmitted for treatment, and discharged on July 25, 2014.

The lawsuit alleges that Martinez’s doctors would not reveal the cause of infection to him during a Dec. 19 follow-up appointment. He filed an initial complaint on Dec. 29, 2014.

Martinez avers that his infection and injuries were due to the defendant’s medical negligence. He seeks compensation in the amount of $20,000 for pain, suffering, permanent injuries and disfigurement.

The plaintiff is self-represented.

Galveston County District Court case no. 15-CV-0491.