A neurosurgeon in Graz, Austria, is at the centre of a legal and medical controversy after allowing her 13-year-old daughter to drill a hole in a patient’s skull during an emergency surgery.
The doctor, whose identity remains undisclosed, was dismissed by Graz’s LKH hospital earlier this year, prompting her to sue for unfair dismissal.
The incident occurred in January when the 39-year-old male patient was brought in with severe head injuries caused by a falling tree. The operation was considered urgent, and during the procedure, the surgeon involved her teenage daughter, allowing her to use a surgical drill on the patient’s skull.
Investigation Leads to Dismissal
Hospital management became aware of the situation in April, leading to the surgeon’s dismissal. The hospital also involved law enforcement, and the patient was informed about the incident. The surgeon’s dismissal was based on what the hospital termed “a breach of professional conduct.”
In response, the surgeon filed a legal suit, claiming the dismissal process was flawed. At a recent court hearing, her legal team argued that the hospital should have terminated her employment immediately after her confession. Instead, they suspended her and waited three months to collect additional testimonies from operating theatre staff, including the anaesthetist.
Legal Proceedings Ongoing
The surgeon’s legal team stated during the hearing that she seeks full reinstatement and will not accept a settlement. Judges adjourned the case until January 20, when testimonies from the surgeon and other medical staff involved in the procedure are expected.
The hospital, which employs over 7,000 staff members, including 1,484 doctors, has not publicly commented on the matter. According to its website, LKH hospital describes itself as a facility committed to ensuring patient safety and trust.
Patient’s Reaction and Broader Implications
The patient’s response to the revelations has not been disclosed. Legal experts suggest the case may have broader implications for employment law and medical ethics.
The outcome of the court proceedings is likely to attract significant attention from both the medical community and the public.
The case remains unresolved, with the next hearing scheduled to January 2025 to provide further details.
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