Kerala: Woman's fingers, toes amputated after botched surgery at private clinic

Thiruvananthapuram: A 31-year-old woman is currently on life support and has lost her fingers, toes after developing a severe infection following a fat removal surgery at a private cosmetic clinic in Thampuranmukku, near Kazhakuttam.

The incident took place on February 22 when M.S. Neethu, a resident of Sreevaraham in Muttathara, underwent a fat removal procedure on her lower abdomen at the ‘Cosmetic Hospital’ in Arasummoodu, Kazhakoottam. She was discharged the next day, but according to a complaint filed by her husband, Padmajith, she soon developed severe fatigue and other alarming symptoms. 

Despite informing the attending doctor, she was reportedly only advised to consume salted porridge and water. Her condition deteriorated rapidly, and on February 24, she was rushed back to the clinic. Staff at the clinic arranged for her transfer to another private hospital, citing complications including dangerously low blood pressure. There, she reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest following the procedure, which was conducted in February. She has been on ventilator support ever since.

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According to Mathrubhumi, the lack of blood flow due to a blocked artery in her left leg eventually led to the loss of movement and necessitated amputation. The family alleges they have already spent around ₹10 lakh on treatment.’

Following the complaint, the Thumba police registered a case, and further investigation revealed that the clinic was operating without a valid medical establishment licence. The Kazhakoottam police confirmed the violation, and a closure notice has since been issued.

Kazhakuttam Assistant Commissioner J.K. Dinil confirmed that a medical board has been requested to assess the matter.

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Speaking to The Hindu, Mr. Dinli said, “We have requested the District Medical Officer to form a medical board, which will meet on Thursday. Documents related to the procedure have been handed over to the DMO. Only based on the opinions of the doctors from the medical board, further steps can be taken.”