Surgical equipment found in woman, police probe death

Police are investigating the death of a woman after a surgical instrument was allegedly left inside her body following an operation at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWMH).

The woman died at CWMH last Sunday, January 25, months after undergoing gynaecological surgery to remove a tumour.

A post-mortem examination confirmed that a metal surgical bowel guard had remained inside her body after the procedure. The instrument is used to shield the intestines during surgery.

It is believed the instrument caused severe internal injuries, including damage to her intestines and surrounding tissue.

Sources said the woman had been working in Tonga when she was first diagnosed with the tumour. With no treatment options available there, she returned to Fiji for surgery last June.

After the operation, she was discharged and initially appeared to be recovering. However, it is alleged she began experiencing worsening health complications about six months later and was eventually readmitted to CWMH, where she later died.

The Fiji Police Force has confirmed an investigation is under way into the alleged negligence of the operating medical team. The Ministry of Health and Medical Services is also understood to be conducting its own internal investigation.

The family has declined to comment. Burial is expected tomorrow.