Malpractice suit alleges doc failed to remove placenta

A Jefferson County woman has filed suit against Memorial Herman Baptist Beaumont Hospital and one of its doctors, alleging they failed to remove the placenta after she gave birth.

Debbie Jordan claims that after she delivered a baby at the hospital on Jan. 8, 2007, her placenta was not completely delivered.

The following day, Dr. Darryl Harris performed a tubal ligation on Jordan, according to the complaint filed March 24 in Jefferson County District Court.

However, during the procedure, the placenta was not detected and was still not removed, the suit states.

After Jordan's discharge from the hospital on Jan. 11, 2007, she experienced weakness, sweating, abdominal pain and the passing of large blood clots, the complaint says. From time to time, she would also pass out.

Jordan kept reporting her symptoms to Harris, but he made no mention that she should return to the hospital for a follow-up examination, she claims.

Finally, on Jan. 14, 2007, Jordan went to the emergency room at Memorial Herman Baptist Hospital, complaining of weakness and the passing of large blood clots. But, she was told the symptoms were normal and was discharged the same day, according to the complaint.

On Jan. 15, Jordan's condition got so bad she was forced to call an ambulance. Once at the hospital, Jordan underwent an ultrasound where it was discovered the placenta was still inside her, the suit states. Jordan was given a blood transfusion and the placenta was removed.

Due to the defendants' negligence, Jordan suffered physical pain and mental anguish, physical disfigurement and physical impairment and disability, the complaint says.

She also claims she lost her earning capacity and incurred medical costs.

Jordan is seeking unspecified actual and exemplary damages, pre- and post-judgment interest at the maximum rate allowed by law, costs and other relief the court deems just.

She will be represented by Monica C. Vaughan of Houssiere, Durant and Houssiere in Houston.

The case has been assigned to Judge Donald Floyd, 172nd District Court.

Jefferson County District Court case number: E183-617.