Memorial Hermann Baptist Beaumont Hospital and several area physicians have been named in a medical malpractice complaint filed by the family of Shawanda Baukman, who died four days after giving birth.
Don Goynes, representing Baukman's estate, filed the suit Jan. 6 in Jefferson County District Court. The other defendants named in the suit include Drs. Gene Barry, Shawna Lambert-Pitt and Vivek Reddy, plus Nighthawk Radiology Services.
Court papers show Baukman delivered her baby at Baptist Hospital while under the care of Dr. Barry on Oct. 24, 2008. During the delivery, "force was used to attempt to get the baby out," the plaintiff's complaint states.
She was discharged on Oct. 26, 2008, but readmitted later that day with complaints of bleeding and pain.
According to the complaint, Baukman was seen by Dr. Lambert-Pitt and had a CT scan reviewed by Dr. Reddy, an employee of Nighthawk Radiology.
Baukman died on Oct. 28, 2008, leaving behind both parents, her husband and three minor children, the suit states.
Baukman's family accuses Dr. Barry of negligently using force to delivery the baby. The family also claims the other physicians negligently failed to recognize Baukman's condition and treat her upon her return to the hospital.
The plaintiffs are suing for all wrongful death damages allowable under law.
They are represented by Austin attorney John Rowley.
The case has been assigned to Judge Gary Sanderson, 60th District Court.
Case No. B189-079