An investigation into the amputation of a woman's hand in Kanpur has pointed to medical negligence, revealing that timely intervention could have prevented the loss. The patient, Nirmala Devi, is the mother of an Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) soldier. The probe panel stated that had a vascular surgeon been consulted in time, the amputation would not have been necessary.
Incident Details
On May 13, Nirmala Devi was admitted to the ICU of Krishna Hospital with breathing difficulties. Her son, ITBP soldier Vikas Singh, who resides in Fatehpur, sought treatment for his mother. When her condition did not improve and swelling in her hand increased, she was transferred to Paras Hospital on May 14. Doctors there cited an infection and amputated her hand on May 17.
Allegations of Negligence
Family members alleged that during treatment at both hospitals, the color of the woman's hand gradually turned black and blue, while swelling increased continuously—clear signs of gangrene or serious infection. Yet, doctors dismissed it as common swelling. The investigation committee noted that doctors kept changing medicines in the name of examination and treatment but ignored the actual health problem.
Investigation Findings
The probe panel stated that if a vascular surgeon had been consulted, there would have been no need for amputation. Additional Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr. Ramit Rastogi said the investigation report revealed negligence on the part of both hospitals. Had they shown the patient to a surgeon in time, the woman's hand could have been saved.
On Tuesday evening, police collected evidence from Krishna and Paras hospitals. Railbazar police station in charge Aman Singh issued notices to the management of both hospitals for investigation. Police said details pertaining to behavioral health technician (BHT), CCTV footage, treatment records, and statements of staff will be recorded soon.
Legal Action
Vikash Singh initially filed a complaint with police alleging negligence, but no action was taken. It was only after he filed a complaint with the police commissioner on May 19 that an inquiry was conducted by a committee led by the CMO. On the directions of the police commissioner, Railbazar police registered an FIR against doctors of both hospitals under section 125 (B) of the Indian Penal Code. On Tuesday, Inspector Aman Singh visited both hospitals and gathered information.
The severed hand was to be sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) on Tuesday but could not be sent without a letter from the CMO. According to police, no letter had been provided by the CMO yet.
