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Filing a claim under 38 U.S.C. § 1151 with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is often described as a test of endurance, patience, and persistence. Designed to compensate veterans for disabilities caused by VA negligence, delayed care, or substandard treatment, these claims carry a weighty burden of proof that can make the process feel … Read more
Understanding Spinal Surgery Spinal surgery can be a daunting journey, but understanding the basics of spinal anatomy, types of procedures, and the recovery process can empower patients to advocate for themselves and achieve better outcomes. This guide provides a detailed look at spinal surgery, from preparation to long-term recovery, and offers valuable resources to help … Read more
My Federal Tort Claim (SF95) My Federal Tort Claim filed against the Dallas VA Medical Center for medical negligence. The claim centers on the VA’s two-year delay in addressing documented loose pedicle screws following spinal surgery, which ultimately resulted in permanent spinal ankylosis. Stuart argues that the VA’s failure to act on their own imaging … Read more
John Oliver on HBO recently delved into the problematic nature of state medical boards and their frequent inability to safeguard patients from incompetent physicians. He highlighted several disturbing trends: One case involved a doctor in Texas performing surgery on the incorrect part of a patient’s spine. This incident directly relates to my experiences with Dr. … Read more
Medical Opinion Summary Joseph David, D.O., a board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist in New Jersey, provides a medical opinion on Michael Stuart, a veteran who served in the US Air Force from 1981 to 1987. Dr. David reviewed extensive medical records, including CT and MRI scans, surgery notes, and statements from Stuart’s family. Stuart … Read more
This article illustrates just how common it is for doctors to hide their medical mistakes and make up excuses. Even this famous surgeon made a mistake and did not tell the patient. The issue of doctors hiding medical mistakes and making excuses is indeed a significant concern in the medical community. It’s been noted that … Read more
This letter from a retired US Air Force Colonel strongly supports Michael’s disability claim (38 USC 1151) filed with the VA. He describes witnessing Michael’s debilitating decline following surgery in 2021, highlighting the stark contrast between Michael’s pre- and post-operative states and expressing deep concern over the VA’s inadequate response. The letter emphasizes the family’s disappointment with … Read more
What Happens When Spinal Fusion Screws Loosen? Limited spinal mobility. Spasms in the back. Insomnia. Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the extremities. Persistent back pain. How do I know if my spinal fusion screw is loose? Often, excessive pain is a symptom of a loose screw after spinal fusion or other hardware complication. “If the … Read more
This document includes the process of obtaining a VA disability rating for spinal fusion, focusing on a veteran’s case involving alleged medical negligence. The 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) criteria is used by the VA to assess disability, emphasizing range of motion limitations, pain levels, and functional impairment resulting from the fusion. … Read more
Flatback syndrome is characterized by the loss of normal lumbar lordosis, resulting in a flattened lumbar spine. This document aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the condition, including its potential causes, symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment options, with a focus on Mr. Stuart’s case. Causes of Flatback Syndrome: Degenerative Changes: Including age-related degenerative disc … Read more