Alappuzha Medical College Gynaecologist Exonerated in 2021 Surgery Case: No Procedural Lapse Found

Gynaecologist Cleared of Medical Negligence Claims

Background of the Case

Thiruvananthapuram: A four-member committee has exonerated a gynaecologist from allegations of medical negligence stemming from a 2021 incident where an artery forceps was discovered in a patient’s abdomen following surgery at Alappuzha Government Medical College (GMC). The case involves a 51-year-old woman from Punnapra who underwent a procedure to remove a large uterine tumor.

Details of the Incident

During the surgery, the doctor, who was serving as an assistant professor in the Department of Gynaecology, was part of the operating team. Although the patient was discharged post-operation, she experienced persistent abdominal pain in the years that followed and sought treatment from various healthcare providers. The underlying issue was identified after an X-ray at a private hospital in Ernakulam revealed the retained artery forceps, which was later removed in another surgical procedure.

Investigation and Findings

In light of the allegations, Kerala Health Minister Veena George mandated a formal investigation. A committee was formed to determine if any procedural lapses had occurred during the surgery. After a thorough review, the panel found that the doctor adhered to standard surgical protocols. The investigation revealed that the abdominal incision was closed only after the scrub nurse confirmed that all surgical instruments had been accounted for, highlighting the importance of operative safety measures involving both the surgeon and nursing staff.

Administrative Actions and Ongoing Investigations

Initially, the allegations prompted administrative actions, resulting in the suspension of both the doctor and a nurse pending inquiry. However, after the committee’s review, the doctor was cleared of any individual negligence. Meanwhile, the retrieved artery forceps have been submitted to the Ambalapuzha Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) as part of the ongoing investigation, with further proceedings contingent on the outcomes of both police and departmental reviews.