Consumer Commission Rules in Favor of Woman for Post-Surgery Complications
Coimbatore: The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has directed a private hospital in Sivananda Colony to pay ₹10 lakh as compensation to a woman for medical negligence. The hospital was found deficient in service after complications arose following a laparoscopic surgery performed on the patient.
M. Anusuya of Sulur sought medical attention in September 2019 for persistent abdominal pain, later diagnosed as gallbladder stones and appendicitis. Following a doctor’s recommendation, she underwent an emergency laparoscopic surgery on September 22. However, her post-surgery recovery was marred by persistent high fever, abdominal distension, severe pain, and breathing difficulties. Despite these symptoms, the hospital discharged her prematurely on September 25.
After her discharge, Anusuya’s condition worsened, and her attempts to seek assistance from the hospital were met with dismissive responses. Frustrated by the lack of proper care and the hospital’s negligence in addressing her post-surgical complications, Anusuya filed a petition with the consumer disputes redressal commission.
The commission, led by President R. Thangavel and members P. Marimuthu and G. Suguna, ruled in favor of Anusuya. They noted that the hospital’s failure to diagnose and manage her post-surgical complications caused her mental suffering, emotional trauma, and financial loss. The hospital was ordered to pay ₹10 lakh as compensation and an additional ₹5,000 towards legal expenses.
This case highlights the critical importance of thorough post-surgical care and accountability in medical practices to ensure patient safety and well-being.
