HOUSTON – The Texas Medical Board (TMB) has temporarily suspended the medical license of a Houston physician, saying he poses a threat to public safety.
Dr. Samer Elfallal, D.O., was suspended on Jan. 9, after a TMB panel found evidence he seriously harmed a patient in 2022.
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According to the board, the neurosurgeon gave a patient an overdose of lidocaine, a numbing medication, which caused the patient to have a seizure and nearly go into cardiac arrest. The patient had to be rushed to the ICU and now reportedly has long-term neurological problems.
In December 2024, Dr. Elfallal was indicted in Harris County on charges of aggravated assault. Prosecutors allege he intentionally or recklessly caused harm to the patient by improperly giving the medication.
He’s facing two felony charges: one for serious bodily injury and another for using a deadly weapon.
Dr. Elfallal has been released on a $15,000 bond while the legal process plays out. His suspension will stay in place until the Texas Medical Board decides on further action.
A hearing has been scheduled, but he could choose to waive it.
HCA Houston Healthcare released the following statement:
“Dr. ElFallal has not had medical staff membership and clinical privileges or been affiliated with HCA Houston Healthcare since March 2024. The safety of our patients is our highest priority. We remain committed to providing high quality care.”