Man claims swelling and blood clotting in med mal suit

A man blames his doctor for causing the swelling and blood clotting in his left testicle after he fell.

Joseph Niebruegge filed a lawsuit Nov. 12 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Dr. D. Scott Crouch, Lincoln Surgical Group and St. Elizabeth's Hospital of the Hospital Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis.

Niebruegge claims that from Oct. 26, 2007, through July 21, 2008, Crouch and Lincoln Surgical Group treated him for a left inguinal hernia, a condition located in the groin area in which abdominal fat or part of the small intestine protrudes through the inguinal ring.

On Nov. 12, 2007, Croch performed surgery at St. Elizabeth's Hospital using mesh meant to repair the problem, according to the complaint.

However, Crouch's work casued Niebruegge to experience illoinguinal neuralgia, which usually results in a burning pain and occasional numbness over the lower abdomen that radiates into the scrotum. In addition, because Niebruegge was inadequately supported while moving, he fell, causing the swelling and blood clotting in his left testicle, the suit states.

Because of the surgery, Niebruegge has suffered severe and permanent disability and injuries, incurred medical costs and lost his income, the complaint says.

In the four-count suit, Niebruegge seeks more than $200,000, plus costs.

Jack A. Strellis of Strellis and Field in Waterloo will be representing him.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-611.