Gynecologist Faces $2.5 Million Malpractice Verdict

By Brittany Golledge

Published on February 17, 2006

The patient, 36-year-old Wendy Harris, visited Parwez at a Sidney, N.Y. hospital for treatment after he recommended surgery to address severe menstrual pain. According to Harris, Parwez cut several major arteries during the surgery, including the vena cava and her aorta. Harris claimed the doctor then ignored those injuries and delayed treatment, essentially leaving her to bleed to death on the table. Harris later developed blood clots and deep vein thrombosis - she currently has to wear a specialized pump to regulate blood flow to her legs. She had previously undergone the same procedure with success at a hospital in Oneonta.

In the lawsuit, attorneys for Harris argued that the blood clots were a direct result of the significant loss of blood during the procedure and the delay in treatment. Attorneys for Parwez maintained that the injury was a known risk and complication of the procedure. The jury agreed with Harris, finding clear evidence of medical malpractice.

The verdict follows more than eight years of litigation between the two parties. In 2003, a jury ruled in favor of Parwez; however, a judge overturned that verdict and granted Harris a new trial in 2004. Attorneys for Parwez indicate he is considering another appeal.

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