Doctor in Kerala’s Kannur booked over alleged medical negligence, hospital denies charges

A doctor at KIMS Sreechand Hospital in Kannur, Kerala, has been booked for alleged medical negligence after a patient claimed she was discharged without a fish bone lodged in her throat being completely removed, leading to prolonged discomfort and requiring further surgery. The case was registered by the Kannur Town police following a complaint from P.V. Savithri, a resident of Echikkovil, Pilicode, in Kasaragod district. Ms. Savithri alleged that she was admitted to the hospital after a fish bone became stuck in her throat. Doctors informed her that the bone had been removed via an endoscopic procedure and that she could be discharged. However, she continued to experience throat pain. Subsequent treatment at the Pariyaram Government Medical College Hospital (MCH) revealed that another fish bone remained lodged in her throat. This second bone was eventually surgically removed at the MCH. The police registered the case after a preliminary inquiry into the complaint submitted by Ms. Savithri to the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Kannur, concerning medical negligence and the physical distress caused by the treatment. In response, the KIMS Sreechand Hospital authorities denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the incident occurred in February of this year. They stated that the patient underwent an endoscopic removal of the fish bone following an X-ray that identified a foreign body in her throat. According to the hospital, the treating gastroenterologist recommended a CT scan after the procedure, in accordance with standard medical protocols, to ensure there were no remaining foreign bodies. However, the patient reportedly refused the scan due to financial concerns and opted to leave against medical advice. She was instructed to return for follow-up after two days. Instead, she sought care at the Kannur Government MCH, where a CT scan uncovered the second fish bone, which was later removed through surgery. Hospital administrator Muhammed Nabeel confirmed that no surgical intervention was conducted at KIMS Sreechand Hospital, contradicting the initial complaint. He emphasized that only an endoscopic procedure had taken place. The hospital maintains that all medical procedures and documentation were properly recorded and that they have fully cooperated with the ongoing police investigation. The hospital claims that the complaint was made with the intent of damaging its reputation. It asserts that the police had already heard the doctor's explanation during the preliminary inquiry and that the case lacks substantial merit. The hospital has not yet commented on whether legal action will be pursued against the doctor or if further steps will be taken in response to the allegations. As the investigation continues, both the patient and the hospital remain at odds over the circumstances surrounding the treatment. The outcome of the case could have broader implications for medical accountability and patient safety standards in private healthcare facilities in Kerala. The situation underscores the importance of clear communication and adherence to established medical protocols in such cases.