Popliteal Nerve Block For Achilles Repair

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A patient presented to an orthopedic surgeon (Dr. C) after a right Achilles injury.

Surgical repair was scheduled.

On the day of surgery, the anesthesiologist (Dr. B) performed a popliteal nerve block.

The patient reported severe pain and flinched during the nerve block.

The surgery itself was uncomplicated and he was discharged home.

At the post-op appointment with the orthopedic surgeon, loss of sensation distal to the knee was noted.

The patient was ultimately diagnosed with a sciatic nerve injury just proximal to the knee.

The plaintiff attorney’s summary of facts is shown here:

The lawsuit was filed against the anesthesiologist, his practice group, and the hospital.

The plaintiff filed an expert witness opinion written by an anesthesiologist, as shown here:

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