HOUSTON – A Galveston woman is suing a doctor and medical team alleging she suffered a spinal cord injury because of their negligence.
Kathy Johnson-Ridens filed a complaint on June 3 in the Harris County District Court against Mohamad Azzam, MD; Ralph H. Hunter, CRNA; Advanced Pain Management PLLC; Stretford Anesthesia Services PLLC; and Hunter & Hunter Anesthesia Consultants LLC alleging negligence.
The suit states the plaintiff was a patient of Azzam and was diagnosed with cervical radiculopathy. On June 22, 2018, the plaintiff alleges she saw Dr. Kim Garges for pain in her right upper extremity and an MRI was ordered. The plaintiff had a follow-up visit with Garges, on July 6, 2018 but her cervical epidural steroid injection was postponed, the suit states.
On Aug. 29, 2018, the plaintiff alleges she had her cervical epidural steroid injection by Azzam, which was done under anesthesia. The plaintiff alleges she was assessed by another doctor who was concerned that there was a cord injury from the injection. The plaintiff alleges she returned to Azzam on Aug. 31, 2018, and was still suffering from pain.
The suit states plaintiff had another cervical spine MRI on Sept. 4, 2018. On Sept. 5, 2018, the plaintiff alleges she complained to Azzam of pain in her neck and burning sensations. On Sept. 18, 2018, the plaintiff allegedly told Azzam that she had lost 7 pounds and was experiencing burning pain in both hands.
The plaintiff alleges she saw Garges on Oct. 5, 2018, and she was diagnosed with a spinal cord injury from the epidural steroid injection. She alleges she continues to feel pain, numbness and tingling.
The plaintiff alleges Azzam failed to adequately consult her about the risks of intravenous sedation and failed to adequately observe, diagnose and treat her.
The plaintiff is seeking exemplary damages, interest, trial by jury, monetary relief between $200,000 and $2 million. The plaintiff is represented by Steven R. Davis of Davis & Davis in Houston.
Harris County District Court case number 2019-37944