A retained surgical mop led to discipline and damages — but not to criminal liability
Issue -
April - 2026, Posted On: 01 April 2026
The patient underwent a caesarean section at a multispecialty hospital in Delhi. Soon after discharge, she developed severe abdominal infection and was taken to another hospital, where surgery revealed a cotton mop left inside her abdominal cavity during the earlier procedure.
An FIR was registered alleging medical negligence against the treating doctor and the hospital. Parallel disciplinary proceedings were also initiated before the Delhi Medical Council.