Florida Doctor Charged With Manslaughter After Fatal Surgery Error

Clear Facts

• A Florida doctor has been charged with manslaughter after allegedly removing the wrong organ during surgery in August 2024
• The patient, 70-year-old William Bryan, died during the procedure at Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Hospital
• Dr. Thomas Shaknovsky allegedly removed Bryan’s liver instead of his spleen, according to the indictment

A Florida surgeon is facing manslaughter charges following a surgical error that resulted in the death of a 70-year-old patient last summer. Dr. Thomas Shaknovsky was indicted by a grand jury after allegedly removing the wrong organ during what should have been a routine procedure.

The incident occurred on August 21, 2024, at Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Hospital in Walton County, Florida. William Bryan had been admitted for treatment related to his spleen, but according to court documents, Dr. Shaknovsky removed Bryan’s liver instead.

Bryan died during the surgery. The medical error has now resulted in criminal charges against the surgeon, marking a rare case where a physician faces potential prison time for a surgical mistake.

State Attorney Ginger Bowden Madden announced the indictment in a statement released to the public.

“The Grand Jury has spoken, and this case will now move forward through the criminal justice system,” Madden said.

The case has raised serious questions about surgical protocols and patient safety measures at the hospital. Hospital officials have not publicly commented on what internal reviews or policy changes may have resulted from the incident.

Dr. Shaknovsky’s medical license status and current employment situation have not been publicly disclosed. The manslaughter charge indicates prosecutors believe the death resulted from culpable negligence or reckless conduct during the medical procedure.

This case comes amid broader national discussions about medical malpractice reform and accountability standards for healthcare professionals. While medical errors are typically addressed through civil litigation, criminal charges in such cases remain uncommon.

The family of William Bryan has not released a public statement regarding the charges or the loss of their loved one. The case is expected to proceed through the Florida court system in the coming months.

Medical experts note that while surgical errors do occur, the removal of an entirely wrong organ represents an extraordinary deviation from standard medical practice and safety protocols that are designed to prevent such mistakes.

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