Thiruvananthapuram, August 29, 2025 — A 26-year-old woman has accused the Thiruvananthapuram General Hospital of medical negligence after a guide wire was found lodged in her chest following a thyroid surgery performed on March 22, 2023. The patient, identified as Sumayya, reportedly underwent the procedure when veins were difficult to access, prompting the insertion of a central venous catheter using a guide wire that was not removed afterward. The wire remained inside until an X-ray uncovered it years later. A case has been registered under Sections 336 and 338 of the Indian Penal Code against the doctor involved, Dr. Rajeev Kumar.
Sumayya’s family claims that after the surgery she developed breathing problems and was forced to quit her laboratory job due to health deterioration. Tests at the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute confirmed the presence of the guide wire, which had adhered to blood vessels and could not be removed safely. No further health complications were noted in a departmental investigation.
In recordings released to the media, Dr. Rajeev accepted that a mistake occurred, stating the error was discovered only after an X-ray and attributing it to the anesthesia team. He denied personally placing the guide wire and noted that the decision not to remove it was based on expert advice regarding the risks.
A medical committee has been formed to investigate the incident. The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has also requested a report, and hospital authorities have launched an internal inquiry. The patient is reportedly under medical supervision and receiving care.
Gauze Left Inside Abdomen After C-Section at Private Hospital
In Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, a surgical mop (gauze) was reportedly left inside a woman’s abdomen following a caesarean section conducted on June 6, 2025, at Om Medical Centre in Ashok Nagar.
The woman experienced severe pain and fever for over a month and fainted on July 10. Imaging studies revealed the retained surgical gauze, which was removed during a 2.5-hour operation performed at a second hospital in Patparganj.
The patient’s husband filed a complaint with the Chief Medical Officer. A three-member panel was convened to assess the case and determine if negligence occurred. Unlike the Kerala case, no police case had been registered in Ghaziabad at the time of reporting, pending the panel’s findings. The hospital and surgeon have not responded to media inquiries.
(Rh/Eth/MSM)