That was more times than any of the other treating physicians. Dr. Scott McCloskey, the employee's neurosurgeon, Dr. Joseph Pollock and Dr. Fred Owens believe at least the pneumonia, bronchitis and sinusitis after the June 1995 back surgery were in part caused or aggravated by the surgery. Anesthesia during surgery is a well-known risk factor in the development or aggravation of pulmonary problems. The employee properly applied to theCommission for approval of the pulmonary expenses. Defendants did not appeal from that order and have continuously refused to comply.
Defendants appeal and argue four assignments of error.
In our review of an Industrial Commission opinion and award, we determine whether the findings of fact are supported by any competent evidence and whether the findings of fact so supported justify the conclusions of law drawn therefrom. The Commission's conclusions of law, however, are reviewable de novo . The findings of fact of the Full Commission are binding if supported by any competent evidence. 106 N.C. App. These statements are competent evidence, and they are further supported by deposition testimony from these doctors and Dr. Pollack indicating the causal connection between the first surgery and the pneumonia of 13 July 1995.