A Shirley couple is expected to file a lawsuit against Stony Brook University hospital alleging negligence and malpractice.

Jennifer and David Lattuga say the hospital grossly mismanaged the care of their newborn daughter Giana. They say doctors told them Giana had two small holes in her heart, but surgery was not necessary. According to the family, doctors visited Giana only three times in the 37 days she stayed in the pediatric cardiology unit. The Latugga?s say they took Giana to Columbia Presbyterian against doctors? recommendations, where she immediately underwent surgery for heart failure.

The pediatric cardiac surgery unit of the hospital was shut down last week by the state Department of Health after three children died earlier this year. The Suffolk District Attorney?s Office has also launched an investigation into the program.

Related Information: State Department of Health releases scathing report on Stony Brook Hospital