A Lauderdale County jury has awarded $7 million to local dentist Sunitha Madasu in a medical negligence case against Dr. Donald J. Bowling and Lauderdale Radiology Group, L.L.P. following a 10-day trial that concluded on September 24, 2025. The verdict represents one of the largest medical malpractice awards in recent county history and highlights critical issues in diagnostic radiology practices.
The case centered on events that began when Madasu, a 46-year-old dentist who had practiced in Lauderdale County for over two decades, visited the Emergency Department at Eliza Coffee Memorial Hospital experiencing severe headache, nausea, and vomiting. After a physical examination, the emergency room physician ordered a CT scan of her head, which was interpreted by Dr. Bowling, who the jury found was acting as an agent of Lauderdale Radiology.
Evidence presented at trial showed that Dr. Bowling reported the CT scan as normal despite the presence of a bright spot indicating an acute blood clot visible across twenty consecutive slices of the imaging. Medical experts testified that this finding represented the telltale sign of a cerebral blood clot that required immediate follow-up. Relying on Dr. Bowling's report, the emergency room physician discharged Madasu without further testing or treatment.
Three days later, Madasu suffered a massive brain bleed that resulted in permanent, debilitating injuries. At trial, the defendants and their experts conceded that the bright spot seen on the CT scan probably was a clot and acknowledged that a simple follow-up test would have confirmed the diagnosis. They maintained, however, that no wrongdoing had occurred.
The jury heard testimony establishing that a reasonably careful diagnostic radiologist would have identified the abnormal finding, communicated concern for an acute blood clot, and recommended additional evaluation. Medical experts testified that had these standard procedures been followed, Madasu would have received appropriate medication and made a full recovery without complications.
Attorneys Ty Brown and J.D. Marsh of MARSH | RICKARD | BRYAN tried the case, with local attorney Kerrian Jaudon providing additional counsel. Brown stated that the jury's verdict enforced basic standards of safe medical care and held the defendants accountable for the independence, mobility, and professional career they took from Madasu. Marsh expressed gratitude to the twelve jurors who listened to the evidence, followed the law, and spoke the truth through their verdict.
The case underscores the critical importance of accurate radiological interpretation and the devastating consequences that can result when standard diagnostic protocols are not followed. The substantial award reflects the permanent nature of Madasu's injuries and the loss of her dental practice, which had served the Lauderdale County community for more than twenty years.
