Surgery patient sues for $98m after sepsis, amputation
Trisha Stevens, 46, lost both legs and her right hand after sepsis developed two weeks after a 2024 hysterectomy.
Stevens underwent a routine hysterectomy in October 2024 but developed an abdominal infection two weeks later. Two weeks later, Stevens called her hospital clinic reporting severe bleeding, fever and cramping, but was told to rest and hydrate.
When symptoms worsened, her husband rushed her to emergency, where doctors diagnosed sepsis. The infection spread throughout her body, causing organ failure and septic shock.
A week later her legs were amputated above the knee, followed by her right hand. Necrosis, tissue death from the infection, took portions of her lips and tongue.
She also suffered spinal damage that left her paralysed. Stevens is now suing three doctors and two Portland hospitals for allegedly delaying treatment and misdiagnosing her condition, seeking almost $100 million in damages.
- 46
- Stevens' age
- $98 million
- Damages sought
- Two weeks
- Time from surgery to infection
- Three doctors and two Portland hospitals
- Defendants
Why it mattersIf doctors miss early sepsis signs, infection spreads fast, the difference between recovery and permanent disability can be days.
AustraliaAustralian surgical patients face similar post-operative infection risks; high-value lawsuits often change hospital safety protocols.
Corroborated bythenightly.com.au
Open this story in InSnip →
