Virginia Jury Awards $1.5 Million in Colonoscopy Splenic Injury Medical Malpractice Case

Virginia Jury Awards $1.5 Million in Colonoscopy Splenic Injury Medical Malpractice Case

Introduction

Overview of the Virginia Colonoscopy Injury Verdict

The Virginia medical malpractice case involving a splenic injury during a colonoscopy became one of the notable healthcare verdicts reported in May 2026. According to Virginia Lawyers Weekly, a jury awarded $1.5 million to plaintiff Mary Catherine Zurowski after she allegedly suffered a serious spleen injury during a colonoscopy procedure performed by Gastroenterology Associates in Virginia. The verdict was reported on May 25, 2026, in the publication’s “Verdicts & Settlements” section, a recognized legal reporting source used by attorneys, insurers, and litigation professionals for tracking civil verdicts and settlements.

Allegations and Nature of the Injury

The lawsuit centered on allegations that the colonoscopy was improperly performed, resulting in traumatic injury to the patient’s spleen. Colonoscopies are widely used to screen for colorectal cancer and gastrointestinal conditions and are generally regarded as safe procedures. However, splenic injury is a known, though uncommon, complication associated with colonoscopy procedures. Medical literature explains that such injuries may occur when excessive force, looping of the colonoscope, or traction near the splenic flexure places stress on surrounding tissues and ligaments connected to the spleen. In severe cases, this may lead to splenic rupture, internal bleeding, hemorrhagic shock, or the need for emergency splenectomy.

Lifelong Medical Consequences

According to the published case summary, the plaintiff’s injuries were severe enough to require removal of the spleen. A splenectomy can have permanent medical consequences because the spleen plays an important role in immune system function and blood filtration. Patients who lose their spleen often face an increased lifelong risk of serious bacterial infections and may require specialized vaccinations, preventive treatment, and long-term medical monitoring. The verdict summary specifically noted that the plaintiff would remain immunocompromised for the rest of her life due to the injury sustained during the procedure.

Broader Context of Colonoscopy Malpractice Litigation

Although detailed trial testimony and court filings are not publicly available, the case reflects a broader category of gastrointestinal malpractice litigation involving allegations that physicians failed to exercise proper care during endoscopic procedures. Colonoscopy-related lawsuits often involve claims concerning bowel perforation, delayed diagnosis of complications, improper instrument handling, or inadequate post-procedure monitoring. The Virginia verdict is particularly notable because splenic injuries during colonoscopy remain relatively rare, making such lawsuits medically complex and highly dependent on expert testimony regarding accepted standards of care.

Similar Litigation Trends Nationwide

Medical and legal reporting shows that splenic injuries during colonoscopy have led to litigation in multiple jurisdictions over the past decade. In previously reported cases, plaintiffs alleged that excessive force used while maneuvering the colonoscope near the splenic flexure caused severe internal injuries and emergency surgical intervention. One earlier New York malpractice case involved claims that traction during a colonoscopy caused a ruptured spleen and internal bleeding, ultimately resulting in a seven-figure recovery for the patient after emergency treatment and long-term medical complications.

Significance of the Verdict

Because the Zurowski case was reported mainly through legal-industry publications rather than mainstream national media outlets, only limited public information is available regarding the precise evidence presented at trial. Nevertheless, the verdict highlights the substantial damages juries may award when medical procedures allegedly result in permanent organ loss and lifelong health consequences. Cases involving permanent impairment and ongoing medical vulnerability frequently carry significant noneconomic damages because of their impact on quality of life, emotional wellbeing, and future healthcare risks.

Broader Implications for Medical Practice

The case also highlights the balance between preventive healthcare and procedural risk. Colonoscopy remains one of the most effective tools for colorectal cancer prevention and early detection, and medical authorities continue to strongly recommend routine screening because of its proven ability to reduce cancer mortality. At the same time, malpractice verdicts involving rare complications demonstrate that even commonly performed procedures can produce severe outcomes when complications occur. For healthcare providers, the litigation underscores the importance of careful procedural technique, informed consent discussions, prompt recognition of complications, and close post-procedure monitoring when patients report abdominal pain or symptoms consistent with internal bleeding following colonoscopy.