Nine patients who recently underwent cataract surgeries at a government hospital in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district developed complications and were admitted to Dr. BR Ambedkar Memorial Hospital in Raipur, officials said on Wednesday. The incident has raised serious concerns and prompted immediate action from the state health department.
Infections Detected During Follow-Up
Officials reported that 14 patients underwent cataract surgeries at the Bijapur District Hospital on October 24. However, during a routine follow-up examination on Tuesday, doctors detected infections and other complications in the eyes of nine patients. Consequently, the hospital referred the affected individuals to Raipur for advanced medical care.
Immediate Medical Support Provided
A health department official confirmed that the team had arranged all necessary medicines and specialised equipment to ensure proper treatment for the patients. This swift response aims to stabilise their condition and prevent further deterioration.
Inquiry Committee Formed
In response to the incident, commissioner-cum-director of health services, Priyanka Shukla, appointed a three-member committee to investigate the case. The panel will examine the causes of the post-surgical complications and suggest corrective measures to avoid similar occurrences in the future.
Members of the Investigation Panel
As reported by Hindustan Times, the inquiry committee includes state programme officer Dr. Nidhi Atriwal, joint director (health services) Bastar Division Dr. Mahesh Sandia, and ophthalmic surgeon Dr. Sarita Thomas from Jagdalpur District Hospital. Their findings will guide improvements in surgical safety and patient care protocols.