Srinagar, July 01: A 35-year-old woman from Baramulla died after suffering medical complications during a surgical procedure at a private hospital in Srinagar, following which her family alleged medical negligence and demanded a thorough investigation.
The hospital, however, has denied the allegations, saying that all standard medical protocols were followed and that the patient suffered complications before the procedure was completed
The deceased has been identified as Haneefa, wife of Zahoor Ahmad Wani, a resident of Wagoora in Baramulla district.
Her husband, Zahoor Ahmad Wani said that Haneefa had been undergoing treatment at Harkar Hospital in Srinagar for a uterine ailment. She was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday morning for a scheduled surgical procedure and was taken to the operation theatre later in the afternoon, he said.
Zahoor alleged that he became suspicious after his wife was taken inside the operation theatre. “The doctors appeared to be in a hurry. I sensed something was wrong, but they repeatedly assured me that she was fine and that there was nothing to worry about,” he said.
The husband further alleged that around midnight, his wife was shifted to the Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, where doctors declared her brought dead.
The grieving family has alleged that Haneefa died after being administered excessive anaesthesia and demanded that the matter be investigated without delay.
“We believe this is a case of medical negligence. A fair and transparent investigation should be conducted so that the truth comes to light,” family members said.
The relatives also claimed that after the incident they tried to contact the treating doctors and hospital authorities, but their phone calls went unanswered. They further alleged that the hospital premises were locked when they attempted to seek clarification.
Responding to the allegations, a senior official of Harkar hospital rejected the claims of negligence, stating that unexpected complications can occur during medical procedures despite all precautions.
The official said the patient developed complications and collapsed just after the procedure was started.
“She suffered a medical collapse, and our medical team immediately initiated resuscitation efforts, and she responded. She was placed on ventilatory support, examined by a cardiologist and other specialists, and all necessary treatment was provided before she was referred to the Super Speciality Hospital, Srinagar, for advanced care,” the official said.
The hospital further stated that the patient’s husband was kept informed throughout the treatment.
“The husband was repeatedly told that he could call any of his relatives if he wished. He was also taken to see the patient, who at that time was breathing spontaneously. Every required medical protocol was followed,” the official added.
Rejecting the allegations of negligence, the official said that medical complications can arise even in routine cases.
“Complications are an unfortunate reality in medical practice and can occur despite appropriate care. In this case, there was no medical negligence, and all standard procedures were duly followed,” the official said —(KNO)
