MRI Malfunction Reveals Embedded Saw Blade
An absurd medical accident occurred where a saw blade was unknowingly left embedded in the skull during brain tumor surgery, and the patient had to undergo a second surgery, Yonhap News reported on the 20th.
MRI image of Mr. A, whose broken saw blade remained embedded in the skull during brain tumor surgery and was sutured without removal, resulting in improper imaging. [Photo by Yonhap News]
A woman in her 60s, Ms. A, living in Incheon, underwent a four-hour brain tumor surgery at a renowned university hospital on the 3rd. The next day, an MRI scan was performed to check her progress, but for some reason, the MRI did not work properly. This was because a saw blade was embedded in Ms. A’s skull. MRI machines do not function normally when metal objects are present.
On the second day after the surgery, the 5th, Ms. A had to lie on the operating table again. Although her body had not yet recovered, she had to undergo general anesthesia again to remove the saw blade inside her skull. Her children were outraged that their mother had to undergo general anesthesia twice within two days due to medical staff negligence. The hospital’s defensive attitude and passive response further fueled their anger.
Ms. A’s children said, "The attending physician admitted the mistake but absurdly excused it as something that happens frequently. The process of interacting with the patient and explaining the surgery progress was also inadequate. The hospital says they will compensate financially, but we believe this is not something that can be resolved with money."
The hospital acknowledged the medical negligence and is currently negotiating compensation. They explained, "We have admitted the accident to the family and sincerely apologized. We will actively negotiate to resolve this matter promptly and amicably. We will continue to do everything possible to ensure the patient’s speedy recovery and well-being."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
