Navigation Plaintiffs Allege Negligence Against Physician and Hospitals Over Cardiac Procedure Mishap
In a compelling legal battle that could have significant implications for medical malpractice standards, a couple from Palm Beach County has filed a lawsuit against a physician and two healthcare entities, alleging negligence during a cardiac procedure. On April 23, 2025, James Adams and his wife Tabitha Adams lodged their complaint in the Circuit Court of the 15th Judicial Circuit in Palm Beach County, Florida, targeting Dr. Matthew Kolek, Florida Electrophysiology Associates, P.A., and Palm Beach Gardens Community Hospital, Inc.
The case centers around an alleged mishandling of a cardiac procedure involving the implantation of a device meant to address atrial fibrillation. According to the complaint, on August 16, 2024, James Adams sought medical evaluation from Dr. Kolek and Florida Electrophysiology Associates for a “Watchman” device due to his condition. After assessing his medical history and condition, Dr. Kolek determined that Adams was suitable for the procedure intended to occlude the left atrial appendage. The plaintiffs assert that despite being offered choices of medical facilities by Dr. Kolek, they opted for Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center based on its promotional claims of excellence in cardiac care.
However, the plaintiffs allege that on September 24, 2024, during what was supposed to be the Watchman procedure at Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center performed by Dr. Kolek, an alternative device known as an Amulet was used instead. They claim this device was improperly sized and inserted after multiple attempts with different sizes failed to secure it properly. Within just 24 hours post-procedure, the Amulet device allegedly dislodged and embolized into James Adams’ descending aorta necessitating emergency surgery including thrombectomy and repair procedures.
