BENGALURU: Eight maternal deaths in Vani Vilas Hospital for Women and Children in just ten days have sparked concern. Doctors at the hospital say all the women who were admitted had health complications such as Pregnancy Induced Hypertension.
Medical Superintendent of the Hospital Dr Gangadhar Belavi said, “These were high-risk cases and referred cases with some complications such as eclampsia and severe PIH. I am not a gynaecologist but a pediatrician so I cannot comment on the conditions. We have seen and discussed the cases. Some cases had been referred and some from hospitals that were closed for Diwali. We have taken adequate care of the patients and have not neglected them.”
Dr Jayashree Murthy, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital, told Express, “Eclampsia or PIH can be very serious and can lead to death. The condition has to be acted upon quickly and high-blood pressure has to be controlled. The condition can progress very rapidly and cause a sudden crisis. The baby has to be delivered. The woman can have convulsions and die. Even if closely monitored, PIH can cause growth retardation in babies and lead to the mother’s death.”
Sources at the hospital confirmed that the mothers-to-be were high-risk cases with health complications.
Director-cum-Dean, Dr Devadass PK, said that he was in Delhi and would return by Wednesday and look into the cases.
Minister for Medical Education, DR Sharan Prakash Patil told Express, “We have asked for a report on all the cases. Every death will be audited and the cause of death will be established. An anaesthetist, gynaecologist and pediatrician will prepare the report and submit it to us. We will then analyse the report and take appropriate action.”