An Illinois woman is suing an orthopedic center and a physician over claims of negligence resulting in an above-the-knee amputation.
Adrienne Stiger filed a complaint Sept. 17 in Cook County Circuit Court against Bruce Summerville and Illinois Bone and Joint Institute LLC, alleging negligence.
On March 19, 2013, the complaint states, Summerville performed a revision of a left knee arthroplasty, consisting of a polyethylene exchange, on Stiger at Vista Medical Center East, after which Stiger developed an infection in her left knee.
On April 25, 2013, Summerville examined her knee and advised her that no orthopedic follow-up was needed, the complaint states.
Two months later, Stiger, complaining of pain and a burning sensation in her left knee, was examined by a different physician at the Illinois Bone and Joint Institute.
Then, on July 3, 2013, the complaint states, Summerville performed surgery consisting of debridement, drainage, and polyethylene exchange on Stiger's left knee at Vista Medical Center East, after which Stiger was sent home with a PICC line.
On July 16, 2013, Stiger complained to Summerville of great pain, despite taking narcotic pain medications, and swelling.
It was discovered that Stiger's knee infection had worsened and required an above-the-knee amputation, which she underwent on Oct. 18, 2013.
The complaint states that Summerville was negligent in failing to use proper sterile technique during the March 19 surgery, failing to order adequate post-surgical care for Stiger after the March 19 surgery, failing to timely diagnose and treat an infection, and failing to order adequate post-surgical care for Stiger after the July 3 surgery, among other negligent acts or omissions.
Stiger seeks a judgment of more than $50,000. She is represented by Chicago-based attorney Keith L. Young.