Medical Board Formed to Investigate Surgical Negligence Case in Alappuzha
A high-level medical board is being established to examine a serious case of alleged surgical negligence at Vandanam Medical College Hospital in Alappuzha. The investigation centers on a shocking incident where a surgical forceps was inadvertently left inside the abdomen of patient Usha Joseph, a resident of Punnapra, during a procedure conducted five years ago.
Details of the Surgical Lapse and Subsequent Discovery
The medical instrument remained undetected within Joseph's body for an astonishing five-year period before being discovered and successfully removed through a subsequent operation at a private hospital located in Kochi. This delayed discovery has raised significant concerns about patient safety protocols and postoperative monitoring at the government medical facility.
Formation and Composition of the Investigative Medical Board
The decision to form the specialized medical board comes in response to an official letter from Ambalappuzha Deputy Superintendent of Police K N Rajesh, who is leading the criminal investigation into the alleged medical negligence case. The board will operate under the direct supervision of District Medical Officer Jamuna Varghese and will include:
- Expert doctors from Government Medical College in Kottayam
- Specialist physicians from Thiruvananthapuram Medical College
- Other medical professionals with relevant surgical expertise
Comprehensive Investigation Methodology
The medical board has been tasked with conducting a thorough and meticulous review of all aspects related to this troubling case. Their investigation will encompass:
- Complete medical record analysis from when Usha Joseph first sought treatment at Alappuzha Medical College Hospital on May 10, 2021
- Surgical procedure documentation from the original operation
- All records pertaining to the discovery of the retained surgical instrument
- Statements and information from assistant professor Dr. Shahida, who led the surgical team
- Testimonies from other doctors, nurses, and hospital staff involved in the patient's care
Forensic Examination and Legal Proceedings
The artery forceps that was retrieved from the patient's body has been presented as evidence in the Ambalappuzha magistrate court by investigating police officials. This critical piece of evidence will now undergo detailed forensic examination as part of the ongoing legal process. The police successfully recovered the surgical instrument from the private hospital in Kochi where it was eventually removed from the patient's abdomen.
Criminal Case and Potential Additional Charges
Ambalappuzha police have already registered a formal case against Dr. Lalithambika, the former head of the gynecology department at Vandanam Medical College Hospital, based on a complaint filed by Usha Joseph's relatives. The medical board's final report will play a crucial role in determining whether additional individuals will face charges related to this incident of alleged medical negligence. The findings could have significant implications for medical accountability and patient safety standards in Kerala's healthcare system.
