Patient alleges staples left in forearm after surgery, CMCH denies allegations
Medical Negligence?
Coimbatore: Following allegations of medical negligence, Coimbatore Medical College Hospital (CMCH) has strongly denied claims that surgical staples were left in a patient's forearm after a fracture surgery in 2023.
The patient, a 42-year-old electrician from Kangeyam in Tiruppur district, was travelling from Kangeyam to Alamabadi on his two-wheeler in 2023 when he tripped and fell, fracturing his right hand. He underwent surgery at Coimbatore Government Medical College Hospital.
Also Read: CMCH doctors accused of medical negligence after woman dies Post C-Section
JIPMER doctors stated that a stapler pin had been inserted by mistake and stitched in during the surgery. The patient claimed that more than 10 staples remained inside his right forearm after the procedure and that an X-ray taken four months ago showed two staples. He also said that staples fixed externally on the skin had fallen off over time.
Speaking to the Hindu, Hospital sources said the person was admitted to CMCH on October 16, 2023, after he suffered a head injury and fracture of both bones of the right forearm with loss of soft tissue and exposed bones in a road traffic accident.
Doctors initially treated his frontal bone fracture and provided supportive care. Subsequently, the fractured forearm bones were stabilised using plates and screws. Due to the significant soft tissue loss, a skin grafting procedure was performed alongside the orthopaedic surgery. Surgical staples were used to secure the skin graft in place.
The patient was discharged on November 10, 2023, at his own request. He later returned to CMCH on April 28, 2025, complaining of discharge from the forearm. After evaluation, doctors removed the plates and screws on May 7, 2025. The hospital clarified that staples used during the skin graft were not removed, as attempting surgical exploration could cause wound dehiscence.
