Surgeon’s Deposition Raises Questions in Fatal Surgical Error
During an extensive eight-hour deposition, Florida surgeon Thomas Schachnofsky repeatedly confronted a crucial question: “Why did they remove the liver instead of the spleen?” This inquiry follows a tragic incident in August 2024 that claimed the life of 70-year-old William Bryan during a planned splenectomy.
Legal Consequences of a Surgical Mistake
Following the surgical error resulting in Bryan’s death, his widow filed a lawsuit last year. Subsequently, a grand jury indicted Schachnofsky on manslaughter charges last month, to which he pleaded not guilty. The specifics surrounding the surgery remain unclear, particularly since Schachnofsky has not publicly addressed the matter yet.
Emotional Testimony Sheds Light on the Event
Schachnofsky’s testimony from November is the first detailed and heartfelt account of the surgical operation. He described how unusual factors complicated Bryan’s surgery, expressing the heavy toll of losing a patient. Schachnofsky revealed that he was deeply affected by the loss and broke down in tears afterward.
Surgical Challenges and the Consequences of Mistakes
Describing the chaotic scene during the operation, Schachnofsky outlined the difficulties that contributed to the mistake. He noted that blood was flowing into Bryan’s abdomen while an enlarged colon obstructed his view. Despite efforts to stabilize Bryan, who began bleeding profusely, Schachnofsky mistakenly removed the liver instead of the spleen, prompting him to ask a nurse to label the organ as the spleen.
Reflecting on a Devastating Experience
Schachnofsky articulated the emotional turmoil of losing a patient during surgery, saying, “I can’t explain what it’s like for a surgeon to lose a patient on the table, how demoralizing and devastating it is. I was so shaken up that I couldn’t tell the difference.” He described the incident as one he will carry for the rest of his life, stating, “I think about it every day.”
The Ongoing Legal Battle
The timeline of the surgery remains unclear, as prosecutors have not disclosed a detailed account of events. The death certificate indicates that Bryan’s cause of death was either “blood loss” or “surgical removal of the liver.” Schachnofsky and his attorney have not responded to requests for comments regarding his deposition, and the ongoing lawsuit also implicates his former employer. Schachnofsky maintains that he is not guilty of any intentional wrongdoing.
Background of the Case
Beverly Bryan’s lawsuit recounts that her husband, a military veteran visiting Florida, experienced significant pain. The couple sought medical attention at Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast, where Schachnofsky reportedly persuaded them that emergency surgery was necessary, despite their intention to return to Alabama. A spokesperson for the hospital confirmed that Schachnofsky is no longer employed there and emphasized the institution’s commitment to safety.
Personal Connection Before the Tragedy
In his sworn statement, Schachnofsky mentioned brief interactions with Bryan leading up to the surgery, underscoring their shared passion for University of Alabama football. He stated that he prayed with the family before the procedure commenced. However, as the operation unfolded, Schachnofsky was unable to pinpoint the source of Bryan’s massive bleeding, describing the frantic atmosphere in the operating room. With growing urgency, he likened his task to searching for a fork in a clogged sink, ultimately leading to the devastating error.
