Probe report submitted in wrong-hand surgery case at Pandharpur hospital; action deferred

However, action against the doctors is likely to be deferred to avoid disruption of surgical services, officials said.

A two-member inquiry committee has submitted its report to the deputy director of health services, Pune, in the case of a child allegedly operated on the wrong hand at a sub-district hospital in Pandharpur. However, action against the doctors is likely to be deferred to avoid disruption of surgical services, officials said.

Medical team performing operation. Group of surgeon at work in operating theatre tonned in blue

A six-year-old boy with bilateral postaxial polydactyly (extra little fingers on both hands) was admitted on March 27. He had complained of pain, clumsiness and difficulty in using a finger on his right hand, and was advised surgery on that finger. However, the operating doctor mistakenly performed the procedure on the left hand, amputating the wrong finger.

Following the incident, the health department constituted a two-member panel led by Solapur district civil surgeon Dr Varsha Doifode. The committee submitted its report on Tuesday after examining medical records, interacting with staff and reviewing the sequence of events.

Hospital authorities pacified the family and assured them that the required surgery on the correct finger would be performed. Preparations for the procedure on the right hand are currently underway, officials said. The family had earlier alleged negligence, stating that the surgery was carried out on the wrong hand despite clear instructions.

He added that the two doctors in question are the only surgeon and anaesthetist at the sub-district hospital. “Any immediate disciplinary action could disrupt surgical services at the facility, which caters to a large number of patients. We are considering how to proceed in a way that ensures services are not affected,” he said.​