Medical Negligence in Mangaluru Puts Woman’s Life at Risk
MANGALURU– In a shocking case of alleged medical negligence, a private hospital doctor in Mangaluru left a surgical mop inside a woman’s stomach during a C-section, causing life-threatening complications. The mistake was only discovered two months later through a CT scan, requiring an emergency surgery at another hospital. The woman remains unable to breastfeed her newborn due to her ongoing health issues.
Family’s Struggle and Legal Complaint
The woman’s husband expressed his distress, stating,
“We have undergone tremendous stress. We have posted the issue on the National Consumer Grievance Portal and the Department of Consumer Affairs. We have spent lakhs of rupees on her treatment.”
The Dakshina Kannada District Health and Family Welfare Officer, Dr. Thimmaiah H. R., assured a thorough probe into the complaint.
Ordeal Unfolds After C-Section
- The C-section was performed on November 27, and the woman was discharged on December 2.
- A week later, she developed high fever and was readmitted.
- Concerned about pain and an unusual sensation in her abdomen, the couple requested an ultrasound, which showed a 10 cm mass.
- The radiologist allegedly refused to share findings, and the doctor dismissed concerns, claiming it was a hematoma (blood clot), not a foreign object.
- Despite persistent pain, the doctor ignored requests for a CT scan, assuring that the condition would resolve over time.
Emergency Surgery After Life-Threatening Infection
- The woman’s condition worsened—she developed joint pain, mobility issues, and severe weakness.
- A CT scan later confirmed the surgical mop inside her stomach, but by then, the infection had spread to her lungs, blood, and other organs.
- The doctor who performed the C-section allegedly refused to take responsibility.
- On January 25, an emergency surgery was conducted at another hospital in Puttur, Mangaluru, to remove the mop.
- She was discharged on February 15 but remains on medication.
Investigation and Legal Action
Authorities have initiated a probe, and legal action is expected based on the findings. The case has raised serious concerns about medical negligence and patient safety in private hospitals.
