Key Points Summary – Surgeon Removed Wrong Organ

• Minnesota woman lost her kidney instead of her spleen during surgery.
• Routine procedure at Abbott Northwestern Hospital went horribly wrong.
• Dr. Devon Callahan allegedly removed the healthy kidney.
• Lawsuit filed against Allina Health and the surgeon.
• Patient now suffers from stage 5 chronic kidney disease.
• Hospital claims lawsuit doesn’t show full medical picture.
• Lawsuit seeks damages beyond the $50,000 procedural minimum.

Routine Surgery Turns Into Medical Nightmare

Minneapolis – A Minnesota woman is now living with stage 5 kidney disease after what should have been a routine operation.

Instead of removing her spleen, doctors allegedly removed her healthy kidney.

Now, she’s suing—and the case could shake the medical world.

Wrong Organ Removed in Stunning Error

Wendy Rappaport, in her 80s, checked into Abbott Northwestern Hospital in March 2022.

She was suffering from possible spleen complications. But when the surgery ended, her spleen was still there—and her kidney was gone.

According to court documents, Dr. Devon Callahan made the mistake during surgery.

Surgeon’s Report Adds to Mystery

In a shocking twist, Callahan reportedly noted in his post-op file that he had removed the spleen.

But later evaluations confirmed it was her left kidney that was taken out.

Rappaport’s condition worsened quickly after the operation. She remained hospitalized until late May 2022.

Permanent Damage, Endless Dialysis

Rappaport was later diagnosed with stage 5 kidney disease, the most severe form.

She now requires regular dialysis, a life-altering routine.

Her diagnoses after the surgery also included respiratory failure and heart complications.

Legal Fight Begins Against Hospital and Surgeon

On May 16, 2025, Rappaport filed a lawsuit against Dr. Callahan and Allina Health.

Her legal team says this was no simple mistake—it was preventable and devastating.

“The wrong organ was removed,” attorney Aaron Lawrence said bluntly.

Allina Fires Back With Statement

In response, Allina Health issued a statement.

“Court filings don’t show the full picture,” the health system argued. “We stand by the life-saving care provided.”

They also said they intend to fight the lawsuit in court.

A Life Changed Forever

The lawsuit paints a different picture. It claims the surgical error permanently changed Rappaport’s life.

She now faces a future filled with hospital visits, dialysis, and uncertainty.

Her legal team argues this is a textbook case of medical negligence.

Damages May Far Exceed Initial Claim

While the current lawsuit seeks over $50,000, that number is just a placeholder under Minnesota law.

Lawrence confirmed the final compensation request will be much higher.

“This never should have happened,” he said.

More Than a Mistake—A Wake-Up Call

The case is sending shockwaves through the healthcare community.

If proven true, the incident could lead to stricter oversight and accountability.

And for Wendy Rappaport, it’s a daily reminder of a surgery that changed everything.

The surgeon removed the wrong organ.

And now, a courtroom may decide who pays the price.