Sharon Jacks, a cancer patient, was scheduled for a below-knee amputation of her right leg at Selby General Hospital in Marietta, Ohio, on 19/9/2025. Before entering the operating room, the surgeon correctly marked the right leg for the procedure. The team also performed two checks to confirm the patient's identity, the type of surgery, and the site of intervention.

However, when Jacks awoke, she discovered her left leg had been amputated. Following this error, doctors had to proceed with amputating her right leg, which was the originally intended site for surgery, resulting in her losing both legs.

On 15/9, Jacks filed a lawsuit against the hospital, the surgeon, and other members of the surgical team. The complaint lists 9 allegations, including gross negligence and deficiencies in management, supervision, and safety assurance. She seeks compensation for past and future medical expenses, physical and emotional suffering, permanent disability, and loss of enjoyment of life.

'The mark was still on the correct leg'

Attorney Brad Layne, representing Jacks, stated that the surgical team had multiple opportunities to detect the error and stop, but no one realized they were operating on the wrong leg. According to medical records cited by the plaintiff, the mark the doctor placed on the right leg before the surgery remained intact after the left leg was amputated. Layne emphasized that the responsibility for checks does not solely rest with the surgeon but includes all participants in the operation, such as nurses, anesthesiologists, and other medical staff. The lawsuit alleges that wrong-site surgery is a serious, preventable medical error.

Sharon Jacks, 74, lost both legs after surgery at Selby General Hospital. Photo: WBNS 10TV

Hospital admits preventable incident

Selby General Hospital confirmed the incident occurred during a September 2025 surgery and stated it immediately addressed the patient's medical needs and supported the family. After a review, the hospital determined this was a preventable incident where mandatory operating room procedures were not followed. Those involved were held accountable and are no longer in their previous positions. The hospital also stated it has implemented system-wide corrective measures to prevent similar occurrences.

The lawsuit is currently proceeding through civil litigation.

Tue Anh (according to Nypost, WBNS)