In a case that highlights the critical importance of medical standards, a couple has filed a lawsuit against a doctor and an anesthesiology group for alleged negligence during a surgical procedure. Rosane and Paulo Beckert initiated the complaint on October 31, 2024, in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, naming Dr. Ralf Blackstone and Greater Florida Anesthesiologists, LLC as defendants.
The Beckerts' legal action stems from what they claim was substandard medical care received by Rosane Beckert at Morton Plant Hospital in Clearwater, Florida. The lawsuit accuses Dr. Blackstone of failing to meet professional standards during an anesthetic procedure performed on April 19, 2022. According to the complaint, Rosane Beckert was undergoing surgery for bilateral hallux valgus correction when Dr. Blackstone administered a popliteal nerve block using an allegedly improper technique and formulation. The plaintiffs assert that this led to post-operative complications including pain, weakness, and numbness in her left leg.
The complaint outlines several allegations against Dr. Blackstone: "Negligently using an improperly formulated injection for the popliteal nerve block," "unnecessarily performing the popliteal nerve block for the procedure on a patient undergoing general anesthesia," and "failing to recommend and perform a more appropriate ankle block procedure." These actions are claimed to have breached the standard of care expected from healthcare providers with similar training.
As part of their lawsuit, the Beckerts are seeking damages exceeding $50,000 from both Dr. Blackstone and Greater Florida Anesthesiologists under vicarious liability principles. They argue that Greater Florida is responsible for Dr. Blackstone's actions under the doctrine of respondeat superior since he was acting within his employment scope with them at the time of the incident.
Additionally, Paulo Beckert claims loss of spousal consortium due to his wife's ongoing suffering and reduced capacity to contribute to their household life as before. The plaintiffs demand compensation not only for physical injuries but also for emotional distress and financial losses resulting from Rosane's inability to work as she did prior to her surgery.
Representing Rosane and Paulo Beckert are attorneys Michael J. Trentalange and Amy K. Trentalange from Trentalange & Kelley P.A., along with Craig M. Harris from Craig Harris Law P.A., all based in Tampa, Florida. The case is presided over by Judge Ken Burke under Case Number 24-004780-CI.