Jaipur: A health scare unfolded in Rajasthan's Nagaur district after five of seven patients who underwent eye surgeries at the Government Hospital in Kuchaman City reported blurred vision, irritation, and discomfort after their post-operative bandages were removed.
Hospital authorities immediately provided preliminary treatment before referring the patients to the Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital in Jaipur for specialized ophthalmic care as a precautionary measure.
Doctors have stated that temporary discomfort can occur following cataract surgery in some cases. However, specialists emphasized that the exact cause behind the complications will only be determined after detailed medical examinations.
Special Medical Board Formed at SMS Hospital
According to SMS Medical College officials, the affected patients—identified as Ghasi Ram (65), Hira Ram (73), Gokul (70), Meera Devi (68), and Narayani (67)—were admitted late Wednesday night.
Recognizing the seriousness of the incident, SMS Medical College Principal Dr. Deepak Maheshwari constituted a multidisciplinary medical board headed by the Head of Ophthalmology, Dr. Nagendra Singh Shekhawat. Senior physicians from the departments of medicine and ophthalmology have joined the team to supervise treatment and monitor the patients' condition.
Doctors said all patients are being treated according to standard medical protocols, with every effort being made to preserve their eyesight.
Investigation Underway
Hospital officials have indicated that while temporary blurred vision may occur after cataract surgery, a detailed medical investigation is necessary to determine whether the complications resulted from routine post-operative reactions or any other underlying factors.
No official conclusion regarding medical negligence or the cause of the complications has been announced.
Public Health Concerns Renewed
The incident has renewed concerns over patient safety, infection-control practices, quality assurance, and post-operative monitoring in government healthcare facilities. Health experts note that prompt referrals and transparent investigations are essential whenever unexpected complications arise following surgical procedures.
Authorities are expected to review the incident after receiving the medical board's findings and determine whether any corrective administrative or clinical measures are required.
Calls for Accountability Grow
The incident has intensified public scrutiny of Rajasthan's healthcare system, with opposition leaders, patient advocates, and some citizens demanding accountability from the Health Department. Calls have also emerged for Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma to review the performance of Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar and senior Health Department officials if the investigation establishes administrative or systemic lapses. Many have urged that responsibility should extend to all officials found negligent, including senior bureaucrats and hospital administrators, after the inquiry is completed.
