Dangerous infection spread after operation, 22 out of 42 reached AIIMS, health department alert

New Delhi. The infection spread after cataract surgery at New Rajesh Hi-Tech Hospital in Sikriganj, Gorakhpur district of UP has changed the lives of many families. Out of the total 42 patients who underwent surgery on February 1 and 2, 22 had to be referred to AIIMS Delhi for treatment in critical condition. The spread of infection was so fast and dangerous that till now the eyes of four patients have had to be removed, while six patients have lost their eyesight.
It is being told that earlier seven patients were admitted to AIIMS. After this, 15 more patients reached Delhi between Tuesday and Wednesday. The infection has spread to the eyes of all of them and their treatment is continuing under the supervision of specialist doctors. Out of the 12 patients whose condition of infection was very serious, the eyes of four had to be removed so that the infection did not reach the brain. The condition of three other patients still remains critical and doctors will take a decision on further surgery or treatment in one to two days.

60-year-old Bahauddin, resident of Belghat area, is undergoing treatment at AIIMS. According to her daughter, her mother lost her eyesight due to the infection. Similarly, the infection in the eyes of Devraji of Bari village increased so much that pus and blood started coming out. After examination, doctors found that the vision was completely gone and the eye had to be removed to prevent the infection from spreading. Family members say that doctors told them that if there was a delay, the effects of the infection could have reached the brain.

Other patients, including Arjun Singh of Inndih and Ramdarsh ​​of Belipar, have also had their eyes removed or preparations are underway for additional surgery. These incidents have spread panic in the entire area and raised serious questions on the quality of health services.

To investigate the case, the microbiology team of BRD Medical College reached the hospital and collected more than 10 samples from the operation theater and other places. According to Department Head Dr. Amresh Singh, the investigation report is likely to come by Thursday. The report will reveal the real cause of the infection.

Hospital operator Rajesh Rai says that cataract surgeries have been being done here for years and this is the first time such an incident has come to light. He said that the situation will become clear only after the report comes and at present cooperation is being given in the treatment of all the patients.

ACMO Dr AK Chaudhary said that the operation theater of the hospital has been sealed and the health department is keeping an eye on the entire matter. After the report comes, action will be taken as per rules.

This incident has once again sparked a serious debate regarding infection control and operation theater cleanliness in private hospitals. At present, the hope of the victims’ families rests on the doctors of AIIMS and everyone is waiting for the investigation report which can reveal the real reason of this major health crisis.