A doctor from a private hospital in Karnataka's Puttur has been accused of medical negligence after allegedly leaving a surgical mop inside a woman’s stomach during a Caesarean section performed in November 2023. The oversight led to severe health complications, requiring an emergency surgery to remove the foreign object and save the patient’s life.
The issue came to light after the woman’s husband shared their ordeal on social media platform X. He revealed that his wife underwent a C-section on November 27 and was discharged on December 2. However, within a week, she developed a high fever, forcing her to be readmitted to the hospital.
As her condition worsened, the couple insisted on further medical tests. An ultrasound scan revealed a 10 cm mass, raising concerns. However, the radiologist allegedly refused to provide details, and the treating doctor dismissed it as a hematoma, reassuring them it would subside over time.
Despite these assurances, the woman’s health continued to deteriorate. She suffered from severe joint pain and was unable to walk, stand, or lift her baby. When the symptoms persisted, the couple requested a CT scan, which ultimately confirmed the presence of a surgical mop, a rare medical condition known as Gossypiboma. By then, the infection had spread to her lungs, bloodstream, and other organs, putting her life in danger.
When confronted, the doctor allegedly denied responsibility for the mistake. Left with no alternative, the couple sought treatment at another private hospital, where an emergency surgery was performed on January 25 to remove the mop. The woman was finally discharged on February 15, but she remains on medication and has been unable to breastfeed her newborn.
District Health Officer (DHO) Dr Thimmalah H.R. has ordered an investigation into the matter, assuring that appropriate action will be taken against those responsible.