This case involves a patient with severe injuries from an accident at work in the state of Colorado. During the patient’s admission a urinary catheter was placed. Shortly thereafter, the patient complained of pain for several hours. The patient’s penis was found to be swollen on examination. A urologist was then contacted, who said that a false passage was created by the catherization. The urologist removed the catheter and placed another in the correct position. The patient was discharged from the ICU and brought to a rehab facility. He was at the rehab facility for 5-6 days where he continued to complain about pain. The swelling of the penis also persisted. The patient was returned to the hospital where he was diagnosed with gangrene on his penis.
Question(s) For Expert Witness
1. Do you perform catheterizations? If so, how often?
2. What precautions are taken to prevent the problem seen in this case?
3. Are you able to review the medical notes and comment on the adequacy of the post-catheterization orders?
Expert Witness Response E-009304
I perform 8-12 indwelling Foley catheter placements weekly. The proper technique for indwelling catheter placement involves insertion of the catheter to its hub and watching for return of urine. While a false passage may not be avoidable, recognition of improper catheter positioning should be suspected. I can review the notes and comment on the adequacy of the post catheterization orders.
About the author
Wendy Ketner, M.D.
Dr. Wendy Ketner is a distinguished medical professional with a comprehensive background in surgery and medical research. Currently serving as the Senior Vice President of Medical Affairs at the Expert Institute, she plays a pivotal role in overseeing the organization's most important client relationships. Dr. Ketner's extensive surgical training was completed at Mount Sinai Beth Israel, where she gained hands-on experience in various general surgery procedures, including hernia repairs, cholecystectomies, appendectomies, mastectomies for breast cancer, breast reconstruction, surgical oncology, vascular surgery, and colorectal surgery. She also provided care in the surgical intensive care unit.
Her research interests have focused on post-mastectomy reconstruction and the surgical treatment of gastric cancer, including co-authoring a textbook chapter on the subject. Additionally, she has contributed to research on the percutaneous delivery of stem cells following myocardial infarction.
Dr. Ketner's educational background includes a Bachelor's degree from Yale University in Latin American Studies and a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) from SUNY Downstate College of Medicine. Moreover, she is a member of the Board of Advisors for Opollo Technologies, a fintech healthcare AI company, contributing her medical expertise to enhance healthcare technology solutions. Her role at Expert Institute involves leveraging her medical knowledge to provide insights into legal cases, underscoring her unique blend of medical and legal acumen.
