A shocking medical negligence case has emerged from Kerala’s Alappuzha district. Doctors found a surgical instrument inside a woman’s stomach. The woman, Usha Joseph from Punnapra, underwent surgery in May 2021. Doctors operated at Alappuzha Medical College in Vandanam.
She had surgery to remove uterine fibroids. However, her abdominal pain never subsided afterward. According to her son Shibin, she repeatedly complained about severe discomfort. Nevertheless, doctors could not identify the cause initially.
X-Ray Reveals Surgical Instrument
Later, doctors advised an X-ray suspecting kidney stones. Consequently, the scan revealed an artery forceps inside her abdomen. Doctors reportedly suggested removing the instrument the following week. Meanwhile, the family transferred her to a private hospital in Kochi.
Shibin stated they wanted immediate clarity and safer treatment. Therefore, doctors in Kochi will conduct further scans before surgery. He also confirmed they plan to file a complaint. Subsequently, they decided to approach Ambalapuzha Police Station.
Allegations Against Medical College
The family alleged negligence by doctors at the medical college. Moreover, they claimed authorities refused compensation. They accused retired surgeon Dr. Lalithambika of committing the error. However, the surgeon denied performing the surgery. She clarified that the operation occurred before her retirement. Furthermore, she said her name appeared as unit head only. She also stated the surgery happened during the Covid period. Therefore, she claimed she was not handling major cases.
Surgeon’s Clarification
Dr. Lalithambika argued the instrument was a “mosquito forceps,” not scissors. She explained that X-rays can exaggerate the size. However, she admitted such mistakes should not occur. Additionally, she said the patient had earlier surgeries.
Therefore, she suggested investigating which surgery caused the lapse. She also claimed such instruments can remain inside bodies for decades. She firmly denied taking money from patients. Moreover, she urged anyone to verify her record.
Government Orders Strict Action
Kerala Health Minister Veena George assured strict action. She promised suspension of all responsible doctors and staff. Authorities have already submitted a preliminary report to the Director of Medical Education. Furthermore, experts from Kottayam and Thiruvananthapuram medical colleges joined the probe.
The minister emphasized that such negligence remains unacceptable. Additionally, she recalled a similar case from 2017. She stated doctors cannot justify errors by claiming instruments remain harmless. Instead, accountability must prevail.
Investigation Underway
Officials will now determine responsibility through detailed inquiry. Meanwhile, Usha Joseph awaits corrective surgery in Kochi. The incident has sparked widespread concern about surgical safety standards. Consequently, the case highlights the urgent need for stricter medical protocols. Authorities aim to ensure transparency and restore public trust. Furthermore, they promise swift disciplinary measures after the investigation concludes.
