Dr ALM’s Medico Legal Series-Part 4-Sponge Left Inside the Abdomen-Gross Medical Negligence (Sweta Khandelwal vs Dr. A.K. Jain & 2 Ors. on 3 June, 2022, NCDRC, NEW DELHI Revision Petition NO. 1989 of 2016)

Abstract Foreign body left peroperatively in the abdomen is a nightmare for the surgeon and prevention is always better than cure. Cesarean delivery (LSCS) was conducted on Sweta Khandelwal at Delhi. The patient was discharged though her condition was not good. She approached the doctor again, but she was sent back stating that everything was fine. Her sutures were removed, but she was not feeling well. She again visited the doctor who told her that it was a problem of indigestion. On September 23, 2012, she developed unbearable abdominal pain, and her abdomen was swollen. She was admitted in a different hospital in Delhi and was operated. During the operation, the doctors found infected sponge and 1.5 l of pus in the pouch of Douglas (POD). She was discharged in good condition. Thus, being aggrieved by the alleged carelessness of the doctors, the patient filed a complaint before the National Commission. The National Commission found the Doctors are grossly negligent and directed to pay Rs. 5 lakh to the patient within 6 weeks from the receipt of copy of the orders, failing which the doctors shall be liable to pay 7% interest till its realization.