Dawson v. Leder

Bernes, Judge.

Appellant Marie Dawson’s late husband, Johnny Lee Dawson, suffered respiratory arrest following cervical spine surgery and subsequently died. Dawson, individually and as a representative of the estate of her late husband, brought a medical malpractice and wrongful death action against appellees Dr. John Burkus, who performed the surgery, and Dr. Steven Leder, who provided postoperative care to the decedent. In support of her claims, Dawson relied upon the expert testimony of Dr. Karen Butler. The trial court excluded Dr. Butler’s testimony on the ground that she was unqualified…