Our client, in her late 30’s, had undergone surgery for the relief of back pain. The surgeon damaged a bundle of nerves, unnecessarily taking a biopsy in the mistaken belief that she may have had a tumor. After the operation, the patient developed Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy with chronic pain and deteriorating use of her leg. She underwent a below the knee amputation. She has resumed a relatively normal life with a prosthesis. After a long and protracted defense, the case settled before opening statements.