Volos Hospital: Surgical instrument allegedly left inside patient’s body

A particularly serious incident is reported to have occurred at the General Hospital of Volos “Achillopouleio”, as a surgical instrument was allegedly left inside the body of an elderly woman following an operation.

According to a report by Thenewspaper.gr, the incident was not detected at the completion of the surgery. The woman returned to the recovery process, but later began experiencing unbearable pain, leading to further medical examinations.

The patient, according to the same information, underwent imaging tests, which revealed the shocking finding: a surgical instrument that had remained there after the previous operation was found inside her body.

The discovery prompted immediate action at “Achillopouleio”, with doctors informing the patient that she needed to undergo another surgical procedure in order to remove the instrument.

The second operation was successfully completed, the object was removed and, fortunately, the woman recovered relatively quickly.

According to the same report, the patient has stated that she does not wish to take legal action against the doctors, nursing staff or the hospital.

Administrative investigation and further inquiry

Nevertheless, the administration of Volos Hospital, immediately after being informed of the incident, ordered an official administrative investigation (EDE) to examine the exact circumstances under which it occurred and determine whether any professional responsibilities arise.

After the completion of the initial investigation, the director of “Achillopouleio” ordered a supplementary inquiry into the case.

According to the same information, the possible responsibility of more than one person is being examined as part of the process, and those individuals have been called to provide explanations.

In the coming days, they are expected to submit written responses and statements. After all the evidence has been assessed, it will be determined whether responsibilities arise, which individuals they may be attributed to and to what extent, as well as whether the prescribed disciplinary procedure will follow.

The strict operating room protocol

Particular importance in the investigation is being given to the protocol followed before and after every surgical procedure for checking the equipment used.

Surgical instruments are organised into specific sets, with procedures in place for counting and checking them, precisely to ensure that all equipment used during an operation has been recorded and is accounted for after its completion.

The key questions being investigated include exactly how a relatively large instrument allegedly remained inside the patient’s body and at which stage of the required procedure it was not detected.

The supplementary investigation is ongoing, and the final conclusions of the administrative process are expected after the written explanations of those involved have been received and assessed.