Scissors in 59-year-old's stomach; Alappuzha Medical College accused of medical negligence five years after surgery

AMBALAPUZHA: A 59-year-old woman who underwent surgery at Alappuzha Medical College Hospital five years ago was found to have scissors stuck in her stomach. This misfortune befell Usha Joseph (59), a native of Nalpathilchira, ward 5, Punnapra Thekku Panchayat. Usha underwent surgery on May 10, 2021, to remove a growth in her uterus. After reaching home, she experienced severe pain and continuous bleeding. Despite treatment by many doctors, she was not cured. Usha had been taking injections and medicine for many years. When she sought treatment at the Medical College Hospital, she was sent back saying that she had a stone in her urine.

The other day, Usha consulted a urologist and was asked to take an X-ray. During the X-ray examination, it was noticed that she had scissors stuck in her stomach. She was advised to seek treatment at Alappuzha Medical College Hospital. Usha said that the doctors had told her that the scissors could be removed through surgery.

Usha's relatives, who understood the problem after she reached home, informed the Fishermen's Congress leader and Punnapra Thekk Panchayat Vice President KF Tobias about the matter. Then, a complaint was filed with the Punnapra police at night.

Doctors used to give me medicine saying it was a urinary tract infection. Taking the medicine would give me temporary relief. A detailed examination was done the other day when blood came out. It was on Wednesday that I found out that I had scissors stuck in my stomach. The doctor said not to reveal the information and that a solution would be found. If I am admitted on Monday, I will be operated on Tuesday. I am afraid to go to Alappuzha Medical College Hospital for surgery

- Usha Joseph