Kottayam: Investigation into Surgical Error at Vandanam Medical College Hospital

Formation of Medical Board

Authorities have announced the establishment of a medical board to investigate a surgical error at Vandanam Medical College Hospital in Alappuzha. This incident involves a surgical instrument allegedly left inside a patient’s abdomen during a procedure conducted five years ago.

Patient’s Experience

The affected patient, a resident of Punnapra, subsequently required another surgery at a private hospital in Kochi to have the forceps removed. Reports from Medic Helpline indicate that artery forceps were discovered within the abdomen of the woman nearly five years post-surgery at the Government Medical College Hospital in Alappuzha. The patient has accused the retired doctor of negligence.

Government Response

In light of these allegations, Kerala Health Minister Veena George has mandated a formal investigation. The patient initially underwent surgery for the removal of uterine fibroids at the Alappuzha Medical College Hospital.

Investigation Details

According to The Times of India, the decision to form the medical panel was prompted by a communication from Ambalappuzha Deputy Superintendent of Police K N Rajesh, who is overseeing the inquiry into the potential case of medical negligence. The board will operate under the guidance of District Medical Officer Jamuna Varghese and will include senior specialists from medical colleges in Kottayam and Thiruvananthapuram.

Forensic Analysis and Medical Review

The artery forceps, which were presented to the Ambalappuzha magistrate’s court by the police, will undergo forensic analysis as part of the ongoing investigation. The medical team is tasked with meticulously reviewing the patient’s medical records from her treatment at Alappuzha Medical College Hospital on May 10, 2021. They will scrutinize all aspects of the surgery and analyze the found forceps.

Interviews and Potential Consequences

Additionally, the assistant professor responsible for the surgery, along with other medical personnel involved, will be questioned. Depending on the findings of the medical board, further charges may be levied against additional individuals.

Legal Proceedings

Based on statements from the patient’s family, a case has already been filed against the former head of the gynecology department by the Ambalappuzha police. To support the investigation, police have retrieved the forceps from the private hospital in Kochi.