Teen footballer in Chennai dies following botched knee surgery

A 17-year-old footballer in Chennai, whose right leg had to be amputated following a knee surgery seven days ago, died on Tuesday morning of multiple organ failure.

Priya. R (17) was a student of B.Sc (Physical education) and had undergone a ligament surgery at a local hospital in Periyar Nagar on November 7, PTI reported.

After she developed problems with blood circulation, Priya was shifted to the Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital where her right leg was amputated, and she was placed under the care of a team of multi-disciplinary experts.


But her kidney, heart and lungs got affected because of the blood flow problem and she breathed her last.

Her friends and relatives later staged a protest, alleging medical negligence at the local hospital. They accepted her body only after police and medical authorities assured of action.

“She complained of pain in her legs hours after her November 7 surgery. I wish the doctors had taken her complaints seriously," her brother Lawrence told TOI.

An official said two doctors with the local hospital at Periyar Nagar were suspended and indicated they might face criminal action as well.

Health Minister Ma Subramanian said Chief Minister M K Stalin has announced an interim relief of Rs 10 lakh to the family of the deceased and job on compassionate grounds for one member of her family.
(With inputs from agencies)