Bladder Mistake: $17M Awarded in Surgical Error

Emily Mitchell was awarded $17 million by a Kennebec County jury after a surgical error on March 1, 2023, led to the irreversible removal of her bladder. The procedure, initially intended to address a benign ovarian cyst, resulted in Mitchell's condition worsening, requiring emergency surgery at another hospital.

During the subsequent operation, surgeons discovered her bladder had been removed. Pathology confirmed the tissue was full-thickness bladder tissue, and there was insufficient remaining organ to reconstruct it. For eight months, Mitchell relied on nephrostomy tubes, experiencing recurring infections and multiple medical procedures.

She was later referred to Massachusetts for complex surgery, where a neobladder was created using a portion of her small intestine. Mitchell continues to live with permanent effects, requiring daily drainage and ongoing specialist care.

The jury found Northern Light Inland Hospital and Northern Light Health liable, awarding damages for medical expenses, suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, emotional distress, and permanent impairment. This verdict provides closure for Mitchell after nearly three years of hardship.