PA doctor sued for slicing into patient's bile duct

A medical malpractice suit has been brought against a Port Arthur physician who sliced into a patient's common bile duct while performing a laparoscopic surgery to remove her gallbladder.

Trina Bendy and her husband Marlon are suing Dr. John Schmidt and the Port Arthur Surgical Association for negligently failing to exercise the applicable standard of care.

The petition, filed with the Jefferson County District Court on April 27, says Trina underwent the surgery on Feb. 14, 2005. During the cholecystectomy, Schmidt "transected Trina's common bile duct, resulting in severe injuries and damages to plaintiffs."

The suit also names the Port Arthur Surgical Association as a defendant because the association is "liable for the conduct of their employees."

The couple is suing for physical pain and suffering in the past and future, mental anguish in the past and future, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, physical impairment in the past and future, and past and future medical expenses.

The Bendys are also suing for loss of consortium experienced by Marlon with his wife, loss of inheritance and contribution from Trina and loss of household services.

The couple demands a trial by jury and is represented by attorneys Sandee Hart and Steve Parkhurst.

Judge Gary Sanderson, 60th District Court, has been assigned to the case.

Case No. B179-198