Substantial medical negligence allegations have surfaced against the Government Medical College Hospital (MCH), Thiruvananthapuram, after a 57-year-old patient reportedly had wooden fragments removed from his stitched leg wound nearly two months after undergoing surgery.
Patient suffers severe injury after tree fall, treated at MCH Thiruvananthapuram
The patient, a tree-cutting labourer from Bharathannoor, sustained serious injuries on March 21 after falling from a tree during work. According to his family, a machete kept behind him accidentally caused a deep cut during the fall, leading to heavy bleeding and severe wounds. He was first taken to a nearby hospital and later referred to the Government Medical College Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram for advanced treatment.
Doctors at MCH conducted an X-ray and performed surgery on the same day. The wound was stitched, dressed, and the patient was discharged after initial treatment.
Patient develops complications, infection worsens after discharge
Family members alleged that the patient continued to suffer from severe pain, swelling, and infection after returning home. As his condition worsened, he was taken to the district hospital in Nedumangad for further treatment.
During a follow-up surgery on Monday, doctors reportedly removed two to three wooden fragments from the wound area. The fragments were said to be around 5 cm long and 3 cm wide.
Allegations of medical negligence raised by family
The patient’s family has alleged that the wooden fragments were left inside the wound during the initial surgery at MCH, calling it a serious case of medical negligence. The incident has sparked concerns over surgical procedures and post-operative care at the hospital.
Health department orders inquiry, panel formed
Although the family has not yet filed a formal complaint, authorities have initiated an inquiry into the matter. Health Minister K. Muraleedharan has ordered a detailed investigation.
A four-member committee, headed by the principal of the medical college, has been formed to probe the incident and submit a report within one week. Statements will be recorded from the operating surgeon at MCH and officials from Nedumangad District Hospital before further action is taken, according to reports.
