A patient claims a podiatrist with Next Step Foot and Ankle Centers negligently performed a surgery, causing permanent injuries.
Kimberly Whetstine filed the complaint Jan. 27 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Daniel THouvenot, DPM, Next Step Foot and Ankle Centers Inc., and Red Bud Illinois Hospital Company LLC.
According to the complaint, Whetstine underwent a surgical procedure on her right foot on Jan. 26, 2018, which was performed by Thouvenot at Red Bud Hospital. However, the plaintiff alleges that following the procedure, her foot condition deteriorated causing pain and requiring subsequent medical attention.
Whetstine claims Thouvenot and Next Step Foot and Ankle centers had a duty to act as a reasonably well qualified provider of medical care practicing in the field of podiatry or surgery. She alleges they breached that duty by negligently clearing her to undergo the surgical procedure before exhausting appropriate conservative treatments, failing to perform the procedure in a safe and reasonable manner, failing to properly treat her postoperative condition, and failing to otherwise act as a reasonably prudent provider of medical care.
Additionally, she claims Red Bud Illinois Hospital negligently performed nursing care of the surgical procedure in a safe and reasonable manner
As a result, Whetstine claims she suffered permanent injuries, including pain, swelling, and limited function in her right foot. She also claims she has had to undergo additional medical care and treatment, incurred medical expenses, lost wages, and has an increased risk of future injuries.
The plaintiff seeks a judgment in excess of $50,000 for each count, plus court costs and all other relief the court deems just.
She is represented by Nathaniel Brown of Weilmuenster Keck & Brown PC in Belleville.
St. Clair County Circuit Court case number 20-L-82