Dothan, Ala. (WDNews) — A former Dothan surgeon is behind bars in Florida, facing a second-degree manslaughter charge after a patient died during surgery in 2024.
Dr. Thomas Shaknovsky, 44, practiced in Dothan before leaving the area around 2019 to 2020. The circumstances surrounding his departure were not made public, and no official explanation was given.
He later relocated to Destin, Florida, where he began working at Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Hospital.
Court documents filed by Florida State Surgeon General Joseph A. Ladapo, MD, PhD, outline multiple incidents tied to Shaknovsky’s care. In 2023, documents state he removed part of a patient’s pancreas instead of the adrenal gland, leaving the patient with long-term, permanent harm. Records indicate that case resulted in a reported $400,000 settlement with the family.
In 2024, documents allege Shaknovsky removed a patient’s liver instead of the spleen. That patient died on the operating table, and officials say that incident is the basis for the manslaughter charge.
Throughout the court filings, Ladapo detailed significant findings, including allegations that Shaknovsky attempted to cover up surgical errors.
Ladapo has also requested that Shaknovsky’s medical licenses be revoked in all states.
The doctor has been indicted on the manslaughter charge and will face trial in the future.