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Thiruvananthapuram, May 15, 2025 – The ethics committee has rejected a medical board’s report that gave a clean chit to a cosmetic clinic in Kazhakkoottam, Thiruvananthapuram, following a high-profile case involving severe complications after a fat removal surgery.
The case centers around Neethu MS, a 31-year-old software engineer from Sreevaraham, who underwent abdominal fat removal surgery at a private clinic in Thampuran Mukku on February 22. Tragically, Neethu developed serious complications the same night and was advised to increase her water intake. Her condition worsened rapidly, leading to her hospitalization and subsequent transfer to a better-equipped private hospital. Ultimately, nine of her fingers had to be amputated due to the complications.
Following allegations of medical negligence from Neethu’s family, the government appointed a medical board to investigate. The board’s report reportedly found no issues with the surgical procedure or hospital practices. However, the ethics committee-comprising the district medical officer (DMO), a forensic surgeon, and a public prosecutor-rejected the report, citing a lack of clarity and insufficient detail. The committee has now requested a more comprehensive report from the medical board.
Neethu’s family has publicly accused the medical board of attempting to shield the doctor and the clinic involved in the case. They continue to demand a thorough and transparent investigation.
The local chapter of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) weighed in, calling the incident a “rare medical complication.” Dr. Sreejith R, district president of IMA, stated, “There is no indication of deficiencies in treatment or methods used at the hospital. However, the patient’s condition became critical due to this rare complication. It is understood at this stage that the hospital provided all necessary treatments, according to the existing system.”
The IMA also warned that negative campaigns against the clinic could discourage small hospitals from offering affordable surgical procedures, potentially impacting access to care in the region. Dr. Swapna S Kumar, IMA district secretary, emphasized that issues with clinic registration under the Clinical Establishment Act are “merely technical and not a standard of excellence,” and called for swift government intervention to ensure a fair and speedy investigation.
Meanwhile, the district administration has submitted a report to the Kazhakkoottam Assistant Commissioner of Police, and a case has been registered by Thumba police based on Neethu’s complaint.
The case has sparked widespread debate about medical accountability, patient safety, and regulatory standards in the rapidly growing cosmetic surgery sector in Kerala.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on publicly available information as reported by ET HealthWorld (source). The investigation is ongoing, and the facts, findings, and official positions may evolve as more details emerge. Readers are advised to consult official sources and medical professionals for the most current and accurate information regarding the case.
