9-year-old's hand amputation: Palakkad District Hospital calls it ‘rare complication’, Health Minister orders probe
On September 30, the child returned in critical condition, with her hand showing swelling, discolouration, and continuous bleeding.
On September 30, the child returned in critical condition, with her hand showing swelling, discolouration, and continuous bleeding.
On September 30, the child returned in critical condition, with her hand showing swelling, discolouration, and continuous bleeding.
Palakkad: Kerala Health Minister Veena George has directed the Director of Health Services to conduct an urgent investigation into the treatment of a 9-year-old girl at Palakkad District Hospital, following complaints of medical negligence that allegedly led to the loss of the child’s right hand.
Meanwhile, Palakkad District Hospital Superintendent P K Jayasree clarified in an official statement that all available treatments were provided to the patient, and that the complication was extremely rare and unforeseen.
According to the statement, on September 24, 2025, the child sustained fractures in both bones of her right hand after a fall. She was initially taken to a hospital in Chittoor and then referred to Palakkad District Hospital. The hospital conducted X-rays, performed closed manipulative reduction, applied a plaster cast, and confirmed proper blood circulation before prescribing medication. The family was advised to return the following day for a check-up.
When the child returned, doctors reportedly found no immediate complications and instructed the family to visit immediately if any issues arose, otherwise to follow up on October 2.
However, on September 30, the child returned in critical condition, with her hand showing swelling, discolouration, and continuous bleeding. The plaster was removed, and an USG Arterial Doppler scan revealed a blood clot obstructing the hand’s blood vessels, causing tissue necrosis. After a cardiology consultation and heparin injections, the child was urgently referred via 108 ambulance to Kozhikode Medical College, where doctors determined that amputation of the right hand was the only option.
The child’s family, residents of Pallasana, allege that inadequate treatment at Palakkad District Hospital contributed to the outcome and have filed complaints with the District Medical Officer and the Collector. The District Medical Officer confirmed that an investigation has been initiated.