A malpractice lawsuit has been filed against Oregon Health and Science University following a shocking incident where John Michael Murdoch's face caught fire during surgery. The lawsuit, initiated by Murdoch's wife, alleges that he was "awake and conscious" when the fire ignited during a tracheostomy on March 29, 2023. The fire, fueled by oxygen and isopropyl alcohol, erupted while Murdoch was receiving treatment for squamous cell carcinoma, a form of tongue cancer. Murdoch tragically passed away in June 2023 at the age of 52, six months after the incident.
The lawsuit names Oregon Health and Science University, Dr. Adam Howard, and ten unnamed surgical staff as defendants. It seeks $900,000 in damages from the hospital for the traumatic experience endured by Murdoch. While the hospital and Dr. Howard have declined to comment on the lawsuit due to patient privacy laws, the case sheds light on the issue of surgical fires—a rare but serious risk in operating rooms across the United States.
Between January 1, 2018, and March 29, 2023, 85 sentinel events related to fires or burns during surgery were reported to the Joint Commission. The American College of Surgeons states that approximately 70% of surgical fires in the U.S. are caused by electrosurgical devices. In addition, oxygen-enriched environments contribute to 75% of these incidents. The combination of ignition sources, oxygen, and fuel creates "perfect conditions for fire" in operating rooms, according to the American College of Surgeons.
To mitigate such risks, the American College of Surgeons recommends implementing stringent processes and procedures to prevent dangerous interactions between oxygen, ignition sources, and fuel. This includes ensuring proper evaporation of flammable substances like isopropyl alcohol before surgical procedures commence.
Murdoch's case is particularly poignant due to his awareness during the incident. He was undergoing a tracheostomy, a procedure involving the insertion of a breathing tube into his throat, when the fire occurred. The incident underscores the critical need for heightened safety measures and vigilance in surgical settings.
The lawsuit highlights a significant issue within healthcare institutions regarding patient safety during surgery. As healthcare providers strive to maintain high standards of care, addressing potential hazards such as surgical fires becomes imperative. Implementing comprehensive safety protocols could prevent future occurrences and protect patients from similar distressing experiences.