Misdiagnosis leads to appendix surgeries on 22 children at Sadiqabad hospital

In a disturbing case of alleged medical malpractice, authorities have sealed a private hospital in Tallo Bangla Chak 212 after an official inquiry revealed that unnecessary appendectomies were performed on dozens of children.

The incident, which sparked widespread outrage after gaining attention on social media, has prompted swift action from health officials and regulatory bodies.

According to a detailed report by a three-member inquiry committee, the controversial surgeries were conducted on 22 out of 28 children examined by the team.

The report categorically confirmed that no outbreak of any infectious disease had been reported in the area, effectively ruling out any medical justification for the mass surgeries.

“All 28 children examined by the committee were found to be medically stable and oriented to time and place,” the report stated, further reinforcing suspicions of gross medical negligence.

Additionally, four other children were brought to THQ Hospital Sadiqabad with complaints of lower abdominal pain.

However, after thorough examination and ultrasound, no significant abnormalities were found, and they were prescribed medication instead of surgery, according to Consultant Surgeon Dr. Sadiqabad.

Four patients were also brought to THQ Hospital with the complaint of lower abdominal pain. However, after examination and ultrasound, no significant abnormalities were seen and the Consultant Surgeon of THQ Hospital Sadiqabad prescribed medicine, the report noted.

The committee inspected the Toheed Medical Complex, where it marked several discrepancies.

According to the report, the hospital did not have a Punjab Healthcare Commission (PHC) License, the operation theatre did not have sufficient arrangements for the surgeries and no OT Swabs were sent for Culture – a basic requirement for infection control.

“The condition of cleanliness and segregation were poor”, the report said.

Based on these findings, the inquiry committee concluded that unethical and inappropriate surgical interventions of these 22 patients were carried out in the hospital.

The committee recommended the immediate cessation of clinic operations and sealing of the clinic premises.

The case has also been referred to the Punjab Healthcare Commission for further investigation and to identify those responsible under the Punjab Healthcare Commission Act.