Alleged Medical Negligence: Kano Woman Dies After Surgical Scissors Left in Her Body

A Kano-based medical facility, Abubakar Imam Urology Centre, has come under scrutiny following allegations of medical negligence that reportedly led to the death of a patient, Aishatu Umar.

According to her husband, Abubakar Muhammad, the deceased died in the early hours of Monday after suffering complications linked to a surgical operation carried out at the hospital in September last year. He alleged that a pair of surgical scissors was mistakenly left inside his wife’s body during the procedure.

Muhammad explained that his wife, who fell ill several months ago, underwent surgery at the facility but began experiencing severe abdominal pain shortly after the operation. He said repeated visits to the hospital yielded little response, as she was reportedly given only pain-relief medication and reassured that her condition was normal for post-surgery patients.

“She kept complaining of intense pain, but no scan or X-ray was recommended. They only told her it was normal,” he alleged.

After enduring the pain for about four months, Muhammad said further medical tests were conducted at Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Specialist Hospital and Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, where scans allegedly revealed that surgical scissors had been left inside her abdomen during the earlier surgery.

Plans were said to be underway for a corrective operation to remove the object, but Aishatu Umar reportedly passed away before the procedure could be performed.

Describing the incident as a painful and avoidable loss, the husband said the tragedy has not only devastated his family but also raised serious concerns about professionalism and patient safety within the healthcare system. He called on the Kano State Government and relevant regulatory bodies to thoroughly investigate the matter and ensure justice is served.

As of the time of filing this report, the management of the Abubakar Imam Urology Centre had yet to issue an official response to the allegations.

Meanwhile, the Kano State Hospitals Management Board has ordered an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the incident. The Executive Secretary of the Board, Dr. Mansur Mudi Nagoda, stated that the probe would establish the facts and circumstances surrounding the case.

In a statement, the Board extended its condolences to the bereaved family and assured the public that the investigation would be transparent, professional and impartial. It further reaffirmed its commitment to patient safety and maintaining high standards of healthcare delivery across the state.