Nine Patients Lose Vision, Nine Undergo Eye Removal; Probe Finds Sterilisation Lapses
Gorakhpur: The district administration in Gorakhpur has cancelled the licence of a private hospital following a severe outbreak of infections after cataract surgeries. The incident reportedly led to permanent vision loss in nine patients, while another nine patients had to undergo removal of an affected eye.
The action was taken after a magisterial inquiry found serious lapses in sterilisation and infection-control practices at the facility. Authorities revoked the hospital’s licence on Friday, citing gross negligence and violation of medical safety norms.
The incident occurred at New Rajesh Hitech Hospital, where around 30 cataract surgeries were conducted during a camp organised on February 2. Within 24 hours of the procedures, several patients began complaining of severe eye pain, swelling, and discharge from the operated eye.
Nearly 20 patients developed serious post-operative infections, and at least 12 reportedly suffered permanent vision loss in the operated eye. The alarming number of complications prompted authorities to seal the hospital and initiate a detailed investigation.
Taking cognisance of media reports, the district magistrate ordered a magisterial inquiry on February 12. The probe was led by the additional district magistrate, while a separate three-member committee headed by the additional chief medical officer was constituted to examine the medical aspects of the case.
During the investigation, officials sealed the operation theatre and collected samples of medicines and surgical instruments. The professional qualifications of the surgeon who performed the procedures were also verified as part of the inquiry process.
Preliminary findings revealed the presence of Streptococcus bacteria on a machine used during the surgeries, which is suspected to have caused the infections. The inquiry report also pointed to major deficiencies in sterilisation protocols, infection-control measures, and overall surgical practices at the hospital.
Based on these findings, the district magistrate ordered immediate cancellation of the hospital’s licence. The chief medical officer confirmed the decision and stated that inspection teams have been formed to audit other private hospitals in the district. Officials added that no FIR has been registered yet, as no formal written complaint has been filed by the affected patients.
