(Radio Iowa) – A state panel has approved payments to settle two malpractice lawsuits against University of Iowa Health Care. The family of Jeffrey Spahn of Dubuque sued after the 63-year-old died of a heart attack during surgery on a broken leg. The family alleged Spahn exhibited warning signs during surgery and the procedure should have been stopped. The State Appeal Board has approved a one-point-five million dollar settlement on that case and a two million dollar settlement with 60-year-old Sheryl Pruin of Argyle.

She sued after fluid from an I-V leaked into her leg during plastic surgery on her upper body. Her lawsuit alleged her leg is permanently damaged and she is unable to walk normally.