Public outrage over patient's death: Doctors at GMC Manathavady Deny Medical Negligence allegations

"As the internal bleeding was heavy and there were blood clots in the lungs, it was essential to undergo a cardiothoracic surgery. There was neither a cardiothoracic surgeon nor a cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) machine anywhere in Wayanad. So we contacted experts from Kozhikode Medical College who insisted on shifting the patient. There were three visible rib fractures. As the internal bleeding continued unabated, three units of blood were pumped in along with 1 unit of plasma," further mentioned the doctor.

Further, the concerned doctor also informed that the Ultrasound and CT scan were conducted and the reports confirmed clots and bleeding between the liver and lungs. "If the bleeding was from the lever, Paul could have been treated at Mananthavadi itself. But as the bleeding was from the lungs, there was no other choice but to shift him to Kozhikode," the doctor added.

The Daily adds that the Health Minister's office had given assurance to the doctors that the experts from Kozhikode would be available. However, because of non-availability of a cardiopulmonary bypass facility, including at WIMS Medical College, the patient was sent to Kozhikode in a medical ICU ambulance along with a doctor and three staff.

Referring to this, the doctor mentioned, "We were confident that Paul would reach Kozhikode and be healthy." However, the patient died en route. "We did our best to save him," said the doctor, adding, "We are trying to do our level best despite lack of funds, medicine and staff."