Spinal cord injuries claimed after treatment at pain clinic

A woman claims permanent injuries to her spinal cord after a doctor at Lin Pain Clinic allegedly failed to perform a procedure in the correct manner.

Barbara Gayle Jasper claims that on Feb. 26, 2007, Dr. Ei Shun Lin negligently performed a medical procedure permanently injuring her spinal cord and her spinal nerve roots. She also claims chronic regional pain syndrome and permanent severe neuropathic pain, according to the complaint filed Feb. 23 in Madison County Circuit Court.

She also suffered permanent persistent swelling in her right lower extremity, worsening of arthritis in her lower limbs and hips, significant weakness of her right lower extremity and hip, constant pain and suffering and experienced disability, the suit states.

Barbara Gayle Jasper claims she also experienced disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of a normal life and emotional distress and incurred medical expenses.

Terry Lee Jasper, her husband, is a co-plaintiff claiming loss of consortium and lost wages, according to the complaint.

Lin, Lin Pain Clinic and Anderson Hospital were allegedly negligent by failing to adequately determine if Jasper was an appropriate candidate for the trial and implant, by failing to offer her less invasive and less risky alternatives, by failing to obtain adequate informed consent, by failing to appropriately place the intrathecal catheter and by failing to recognize in a timely manner the need to remove the intrathecal catheter, according to the complaint.

They also negligently failed to inform the injured parties of the reason for the injuries, the suit states.

In addition, Anderson Hospital was negligent by failing to adequately determine if Lin was qualified and capable to perform an appropriate trial and by failing to adequately care for and assist Jasper, the suit alleges.

The Jaspers are seeking a judgment in excess of $300,000, plus costs.

Joseph A. Bartholomew of Cook, Ysursa, Bartholomew, Brauer and Shevlin in Belleville will be representing them.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-0154.