$28.8 Million Misdiagnosis Verdict Secured for Sokolove Law Client

NEWTON, Mass., Nov. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Sokolove Law is proud to announce a $28.8 million jury verdict for the family of a man who died after an emergency room physician failed to diagnose a life-threatening aortic aneurysm.

The Massachusetts misdiagnosis lawsuit alleged that the man went to an emergency room complaining of chest and back pain and was misdiagnosed with an infection due to a lack of proper testing.

Medical experts in the case testified that a computed tomography angiography (CTA), which is a noninvasive test that combines a CT scan with contrast dye to create detailed 3D images of blood vessels, would have revealed the aneurysm.

Had the aneurysm been found upon his admission to the emergency room, experts believed it could've been repaired with surgery. Instead, his condition worsened overnight. By the time a scan was ordered the next morning and he was correctly diagnosed, it was too late. His aorta ruptured, and he passed away.

"Our client did exactly what anyone should do when they have chest and back pain: He went to the emergency room," explained Ricky LeBlanc, Managing Attorney of Sokolove Law. "Those symptoms can be warning signs of an aortic emergency, and a routine scan could have revealed the aneurysm while there was still time to repair it. Instead, he was diagnosed with an infection, and his children lost their father."

After an 8-day trial, the jury deliberated for about 3 hours before returning a $20 million malpractice verdict for the loss his daughters suffered. With interest, the award grew to $28.8 million.

"No verdict can bring him back, but this one sends a clear message that doctors and hospitals must take these warning signs seriously," LeBlanc continued.

Aortic aneurysms and dissections are medical emergencies. Sudden, severe chest or back pain can signal a problem with the aorta, the body's largest artery. When these symptoms appear, timely imaging can make the difference between life-saving surgery and a fatal rupture.

For over 45 years, Sokolove Law has helped clients impacted by a missed or delayed diagnosis secure justice. Families can contact the firm for a free case review to learn more about their legal options.

About Sokolove Law

Sokolove Law is a national personal injury law firm headquartered in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. Since 1979, the firm has helped people across the U.S. pursue justice and compensation in cases involving mesothelioma, birth injury, sexual abuse, nursing home neglect, and dangerous pharmaceuticals and devices, securing over $10 billion total. By helping clients nationwide, Sokolove Law aims to make the legal system accessible to everyone. Learn more at www.sokolovelaw.com.

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SOURCE Sokolove Law