Cardiologist Sued for Xarelto Prescription

This medical malpractice case involves a male patient who suffered from heart disease, was placed on the blood-thinner Xarelto, and faced rapidly declining health. Five days after a cardiac catheterization, the patient developed a groin hematoma with multiple cavities; an ultrasound showed pulsatile arterial blood flow in the largest hematoma chamber. After the patient was transferred to a different facility, it was concluded that he had frank bleeding from his groin which was unable to clot. The bleeding showed signs of bacterial infection, and though the hematoma was operated on his rapidly declining health caused him to pass away shortly after the procedure. An expert in prescription blood thinners was sought to comment on the use of Xarelto in the case.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

Expert Witness Response E-001190

I do routinely prescribe blood thinners. The tests that must be ordered to confirm suitability are routine coagulation panels. I have lectured and published extensively on cardiovascular disease in general. I have not prescribed Xarelto to a patient who consequently developed an adverse reaction to the drug, but a patient can certainly develop an adverse reaction if great care is not taken.

Contact this expert witness