Concerns over patient safety have emerged after a senior physician in Assam performed 21 C-sections in just 10 hours, prompting a show-cause notice from local health authorities.
In a striking incident from Assam’s Morigaon district, a senior physician has been issued a show-cause notice for performing an extraordinary 21 cesarean sections within a span of just 10 hours. This alarming situation has raised significant concerns regarding the health and safety of both mothers and newborns.
The notice, which was signed by Additional District Commissioner (Health) Nitisha Bora, was delivered to Dr. Kantheswar Bordoloi on September 6. Dr. Bordoloi, who is a senior gynaecologist and serves as the senior medical and health officer at Morigaon Civil Hospital, is under scrutiny for the rapid succession of surgeries.
According to the notice, Dr. Bordoloi conducted 21 emergency lower segment cesarean section (LSCS) deliveries between 3:40 PM on September 5 and 1:50 AM on September 6 in the hospital’s major operating theatre. The notice outlines a series of inquiries directed at the physician, requesting detailed information about each case. This includes whether standard operating procedures (SOPs) for sterilization of surgical instruments were adhered to, documentation of any fetal distress cases, and details regarding patients admitted to the Sick Neonatal Care Unit (SNCU). Additionally, the notice seeks clarification on the roles and duties of the assisting staff during these procedures.
The ADC’s notice expressed serious concerns, stating, “This raises a few serious concerns and hence, in this regard, you are hereby directed to submit a comprehensive report for each of the above-mentioned cases.” The ADC also noted that preoperative and postoperative notes were inadequately maintained during a review of the case records. “Such detailed documentation is imperative for strengthening infection control protocols and for preventing maternal and infant morbidity and mortality,” the notice emphasized.
Dr. Bordoloi has been given three days to submit his report and explanations regarding the surgeries performed. In response to the controversy surrounding his actions, he defended his performance, asserting that he is fully capable of conducting multiple surgeries in a short timeframe. “What I have done is nothing unusual, and other doctors also perform many surgeries at such a pace. Perhaps someone complained against me,” he stated in a recent interview with reporters.
Elaborating on his approach, Dr. Bordoloi explained that while a standard cesarean typically takes around 25 minutes, it can be completed in as little as 15 minutes for less complicated cases. He also mentioned that the hospital is equipped with two operating tables, which allows for the sterilization cycles to be alternated without compromising safety protocols.
According to Dr. Bordoloi, 19 of the 21 mothers and infants have already been discharged in stable condition, while two remain hospitalized, including one patient who has been referred to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital for further care. “Though this is not a big deal, it is frustrating to face such questions after so many years of service,” he remarked, hinting at the possibility of resigning from government service if what he described as “conspiracies” against him persist.
The situation has sparked a broader conversation about the pressures faced by healthcare professionals and the importance of maintaining rigorous standards in patient care. As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of patients in the healthcare system.
Source: Original article