Woman Claims Cotton Cloth Left Inside Body
Kozhikode: A serious allegation of medical negligence has surfaced at the Mananthavady Government Medical College Hospital (MCH) in Wayanad, where a 21-year-old woman has claimed that a piece of cotton cloth was found inside her body more than two months after her cesarean delivery. The incident has raised fresh concerns over post-operative care in government hospitals.
Health Authorities Order Probe
Following the complaint, the District Medical Officer (DMO), Wayanad, ordered a detailed investigation into the matter. The inquiry was initiated after the woman approached Kerala Minister O.R. Kelu, alleging grave lapses in the treatment and follow-up care she received at the hospital.
Repeated Complaints, No Proper Examination
According to reports, the woman delivered her baby through a cesarean section on October 20, 2025, and was discharged on October 25. Soon after returning home, she developed severe abdominal pain and revisited the hospital. However, she was allegedly advised only to drink water and was sent back without any detailed medical examination. A similar response was reportedly given during her second visit as well.
Disturbing Discovery After Two Months
The woman said her pain and discomfort persisted for weeks. On December 29, she noticed a foul smell and later experienced the passage of a cotton cloth from her body, which she believes had been left behind during the delivery procedure. She also reported ongoing pain and related health complications during this period.
Police Await Medical Findings
Following the incident, the woman lodged a complaint with the police. However, officials said further legal action would depend on the findings of the medical inquiry. Her family suspects that surgical gauze used to control bleeding during childbirth was not removed, leading to infection and prolonged suffering. The case has renewed calls for stricter adherence to surgical protocols and accountability in public healthcare institutions.
