Shocking Discovery Reveals Nearly Two Decades of Unexplained Pain
In a disturbing case of medical negligence that has sparked outrage across Thailand, a 36-year-old woman has been living with a suture needle in her vagina for 18 years following a childbirth procedure gone wrong. The case, recently brought to light by the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women, highlights gaps in medical accountability and patient care.
The incident occurred at a hospital in Thailand’s Narathiwat province during what should have been a routine delivery. According to the patient’s account, medical staff accidentally dropped a suture needle into her vagina during post-delivery care. Rather than retrieving the implement, staff reportedly closed the wound, citing concerns about excessive bleeding.
Years of silent suffering
For nearly two decades, the woman endured unexplained and intermittent lower abdominal pain, unaware of its true cause. The source of her suffering only came to light last year when an X-ray examination at a government hospital revealed the shocking presence of the surgical needle, still lodged in her body.
Ongoing medical challenges
Despite the discovery, the patient’s ordeal continues:
- The needle’s mobile position within her body has forced the postponement of removal surgery three times
- She must make four hospital visits monthly to monitor
- The case has been referred to a specialized facility in Songkhla province
Financial and personal impact
While medical insurance provides some relief, the frequent hospital visits create significant financial strain on the family. The situation prompted the woman to seek assistance from the Pavena Foundation, a non-profit organization known for supporting victims of abuse and negligence.
“The foundation, recognizing the severity of the case, has facilitated support through various channels,” a spokesperson explained. Their intervention has resulted in:
- Coordination with local Social Security offices for transportation assistance
- Arrangement for a village head to accompany the patient during treatments
- Advocacy for comprehensive care and support
The hospital where the initial incident occurred has faced intense public criticism but has yet to issue any public statement regarding the case. The silence has only intensified questions about accountability in Thailand’s healthcare system.
Foundation’s role
The Pavena Foundation for Children and Women, which typically focuses on cases involving rape, harassment, and human trafficking, has taken up this medical negligence case, highlighting the severity of the situation. Their involvement has brought needed attention to what might otherwise have remained a private tragedy.
As the patient awaits a viable solution, her case has sparked discussions about medical accountability, patient rights, and the need for improved protocols in Thailand’s healthcare system. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of how a moment of medical negligence can impact a patient’s life for decades.