In a serious case of alleged medical negligence, a six-year-old boy in Maharashtra’s Pandharpur underwent surgery on the wrong hand, prompting authorities to order an official inquiry. The incident has raised concerns over patient safety and protocol adherence in government healthcare facilities.
The child, diagnosed with bilateral postaxial polydactyly, was admitted to the sub-district hospital on March 27 with complaints of pain and restricted movement in a finger on his right hand. Doctors had recommended surgical removal of the affected finger. However, during the procedure, the medical team mistakenly operated on the left hand and removed the wrong finger.
What Is Polydactyly?
Polydactyly refers to a congenital condition where a baby is born with extra fingers or toes.
Doctors classify it as one of the most common limb differences present at birth.
The extra digit may appear on one or both hands or feet and can vary in size and structure.
Types of Polydactyly
Clinicians categorize polydactyly based on the location of the extra digit.
Ulnar (postaxial): Extra digit develops near the little finger (most common type).
Radial (preaxial): Extra digit forms near the thumb.
Central: Extra digit appears between the middle fingers (rarer form).
How the Extra Digit Appears
The extra digit may attach only by skin or soft tissue in mild cases.
In more developed cases, it may contain bones, joints, nerves, and function like a normal finger.
Causes and Risk Factors
Genetic changes during fetal development cause polydactyly.
The condition often runs in families but can also occur without any family history.
It may appear as an isolated condition or as part of a broader genetic syndrome.
Diagnosis
Doctors usually identify polydactyly immediately at birth through physical examination.
In some cases, imaging tests help assess the structure of the extra digit before treatment. (general clinical extension, aligned with source context)
Treatment and Management
Surgeons typically remove the extra digit through a minor surgical procedure.
Treatment depends on how well the extra digit has developed.
Most children recover quickly and regain full function after treatment.
Speaking to India TV, the child’s family stated that they had clearly signed the NOC authorizing surgery on the right hand. They alleged that despite this explicit consent, the doctor operated on the left hand instead. The family demanded strict action against those responsible for the lapse.
Meanwhile, the doctors claimed that the child had the condition in both hands; however, the family maintained that only the right hand required surgical intervention. Officials added that they will determine further action after the inquiry committee submits its report.
Medical Superintendent Dr. Vijaykumar Sarde confirmed the development, stating, “A detailed inquiry will be conducted, and if the doctor is found guilty, a report will be sent to senior authorities for necessary action.”
The inquiry panel, led by Solapur district civil surgeon Dr. Varsha Doifode, has already visited the hospital and recorded statements from the staff involved in the procedure.
Reference:
Cleveland Clinic. “Polydactyly (Extra Fingers or Toes): What It Is & Causes.” Last reviewed April 12, 2025. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24302-polydactyly-extra-digits
(Rh/ARC)