Surgeons Got Off on Wrong Foot, Claims Pa. Patient

August 26, 2007

Doctors performed surgery on the wrong foot of a Pennsylvania man who wanted to have a bunion and hammer toe corrected, according to a lawsuit.

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Terry Fortson, 60, of McKeesport, said doctors at the Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System operated on his right foot instead of his left foot in February 2006.

He initially filed an administrative claim, but that was denied, said his attorney, Ralston S. Jackson. Fortson filed a federal lawsuit on Friday, naming the government, which operates the facility, and the two podiatrists who operated.

David Cowgill, a spokesman for the VA, said he could not comment on pending litigation.

Fortson is alleging negligence and is seeking more than $75,000.