During the last two decades, carpal tunnel injuries have risen dramatically among workers who perform repetitive motions with their hands, such as typing. When provided with proper treatment, which sometimes involves delicate surgical operations, people affected by carpal tunnel issues can resume their normal work and life activities. However, improperly diagnosed conditions and botched medical procedures happen far too often.

Jim Smith (name changed at client’s request) works for a  law enforcement agency in Portland. His job requires him to use his hands a great deal. In late 2006, Smith decided to seek treatment for pain that he was feeling in his hand. “I realized that I was having carpal tunnel problems, and that I needed to see a doctor,” the man recalls.

Smith consulted Kaiser Permanente. A surgeon recommended a left median nerve release at the carpal tunnel. During the surgery, the surgeon cut and severed the left flexor pollicis longus or FPL tendon, which is not supposed to be cut as part of the procedure. Following his surgery, Smith experienced pain and was unable to flex his left thumb. “Right away, I knew that something was seriously wrong,” he says.
About one month after his surgery, Smith went to see another Kaiser surgeon, for a second opinion. The new surgeon diagnosed a likely rupture of the FPL tendon and performed exploratory surgery, which confirmed his diagnosis. The second surgeon went on to repair the ruptured FPL tendon. Although his FPL tendon was repaired, Smith continued to suffer pain and usage limitations. He later underwent occupational therapy to learn how to live with his damaged left hand.

Due to ongoing discomfort and the belief that the Kaiser surgeon had been negligent in his initial treatment of him, Smith decided to consult an attorney. His wife learned of Lawrence Baron and gave him a call. Baron helped Smith file a claim against Kaiser for medical negligence and breach of duty. The claim eventually resolved with a settlement agreeable to both sides.

Thanks to the settlement negotiated by Baron, Smith obtained compensation for the permanent damage to his hand. He was also able to pay his medical bills. He’s gratified he held Kaiser accountable for the error and interruption the error caused to  his career and personal life.

Smith enjoyed working with Baron’s office and recommends him to others. “Lawrence and his staff were just great,” he says. “They showed interest in me and were always there when I needed them.”

Although he still experiences pain, Smith has been able to resume a normal routine. “Overall, things are good. I’m still undergoing some issues with my hand, but thankfully it’s really never going to get any worse,” he reports.