COLONOSCOPY ASSAULT? A West Virginia woman says Steven R. Matulis, MD, sexually assaulted her while she was unconscious.

About a week after her colonoscopy, police showed up at the house of a 25-year-old West Virginia woman to deliver some disturbing news: Her gastroenterologist had allegedly touched her inappropriately in several areas while she was sedated by propofol during her February procedure, according to the woman's lawsuit.

The lawsuit alleges that shortly after she was given propofol, Steven R. Matulis, MD, "placed his hands inside her hospital gown and fondled and groped her breasts" and that during the colonoscopy, he "used his fingers to repeatedly penetrate her vagina." Unbeknownst to Dr. Matulis, says the complaint, the assault "was witnessed by one or more employees" of the hospital. The lawsuit also alleges the doctor previously sexually assaulted other female patients who were under anesthesia.

The woman is suing both Dr. Matulis and Charleston (W.Va.) Gastroenterology Associates, saying that the assault was witnessed and reported by other employees at Charleston Area Medical Center, and that Gastroenterology Associates either knew or should have known that Dr. Matulis had a history of assaulting female patients. Dr. Matulis "had a pattern and practice of making inappropriate and sexually suggestive remarks and comments to female patients and employees at Charleston Area Medical Center," reads the suit.

Dr. Matulis's privileges were suspended, pending an investigation. His privileges were permanently revoked in March, says the complaint. So far no criminal charges have been filed.

Charleston lawyer Ben Bailey, who is representing Dr. Matulis, did not return a call from Outpatient Surgery.

Her 3-count complaint alleges battery, tort of outrage, and negligent and reckless retention of the part of Gastroenterology Associates. She's seeking compensatory and punitive damages.

A man who identified himself as the practice manager at Gastroenterology Associates said "we have no comment on anything." A call to Charleston Area Medical Center was not immediately returned.

Jim Burger