In a shocking case of alleged medical negligence, a doctor at the Regional Institute of Ophthalmology administered an injection into the wrong eye of a patient. After noticing the error, the 59-year-old woman’s family filed a complaint. The Director of Medical Education later confirmed the suspension of Assistant Professor Dr. S.S. Sujesh amid an ongoing investigation.
The Regional Institute of Ophthalmology is a government-run facility in Thiruvananthapuram and one of the key centers for eye care in Kerala, serving hundreds of patients every day.
A Mistake or Negligence
Asoor Beevi, a resident of Beemapally, had been undergoing treatment for blurred vision caused by high blood pressure for over a month. Due to fluid accumulation in her left eye, it swelled up, and doctors recommended an injection to reduce it.
Only her left eye was cleaned and prepared for the procedure. However, during the surgery on Monday, the injection was mistakenly given in her right eye instead.
What Made the Family Suspicious
Following the procedure, the patient was shifted to the ward on Tuesday. Her family soon noticed something was wrong and was shocked to discover the mistake. The patient’s son, Majeed, immediately questioned the doctor about the injection.
The doctor defended himself, saying the right eye appeared red during the procedure, which led him to administer the injection there instead.
Adding to their distress, the family also had trouble finding the injection due to its unavailability at the hospital. Finally, on the doctor's insistence, they purchased it from a private supplier.
The Family’s Agony
Her son shared how they had spent six thousand rupees to arrange for the injection. Seeing the outcome of the surgery, they were stunned and deeply upset, feeling all of their effort and money had gone in vain.
The family then filed a formal complaint, and the hospital authorities had to step in.
Action Taken
Following an internal inquiry, the doctor was found guilty of medical negligence. The head of the Ophthalmology department stated that although the patient is unlikely to suffer any serious complications, a mistake is still a mistake. The Vanchiyoor police also registered a case against him. Authorities confirmed that Dr. Sujesh has been suspended while the matter is being further investigated.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Pooja Bansal/MSM)