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Personal Injury (Non-Vehicular)
Professional Negligence
Medical Malpractice

Martin Arellano, Margarita Arellano v. Clayton Varga, Pasadena Rehabilitation Center

Published: Sep. 30, 2000 | Result Date: Jul. 19, 2000 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |

Case number: GC023002 Verdict –  $0

Judge

Jan Pluim

Court

L.A. Superior Pasadena


Attorneys

Plaintiff

Steven A. Roseman


Defendant

N. Denise Taylor
(Taylor DeMarco LLP)


Experts

Plaintiff

Gary Gibbs
(medical)

Defendant

Lester M. Zackler M.D.
(medical)

Laura Audell
(medical)

Thomas L. Hedge Jr., M.D.
(medical)

Facts

On March 9, 1995, the plaintiff suffered an industrial injury to his lumbar spine. Thereafter, he had a lumbar laminectomy, and was thereafter treated for a chronic pain condition. He consulted with the defendant on Jan. 26, 1998. From January 28-30, 1998, the plaintiff received a series of epidural injections, through an epidural catheter, as a trial for a morphine pump. The plaintiff developed an epidural abscess, which was drained by lumbar laminectomy at L2-3 on Feb. 4, 1998, followed by one month of IV antibiotics.

Settlement Discussions

The plaintiff's last demand was $175,000. The defendant's last offer was $29,999.

Damages

$250,000 (general damages)

Injuries

The plaintiff claimed chronic pain and inability to walk, work, or participate in any activities of daily living without assistance.

Deliberation

30 minutes

Poll

12-0

Length

seven days


#93208

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