Cardboard used to tie accident victim’s fractured leg at Bihar hospital, viral video sparks outrage and probe ordered

A video of a road accident victim at a sub-divisional hospital in Bihar’s Begusarai district triggered widespread outrage after it showed his fractured leg being immobilised using pieces of a medicine carton instead of plaster.

The patient, Kunal Kumar, a resident of Maheshwara village, was injured on August 3 after his motorcycle met with an accident near Harsain Bridge. He sustained a fracture in his right leg and was rushed to Manjhaul Sub-Divisional Hospital by locals and family members.

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Makeshift Treatment Raises Questions

At the hospital, staff allegedly placed pieces of a pharmaceutical carton on either side of his injured leg and secured them with rope and bandages to keep it stable. After administering initial care, doctors referred him to Sadar Hospital in Begusarai for further treatment.

Hospital’s Response

Hospital in-charge Dr Abhinav Priyadarshi defended the move, stating that the method used was medically appropriate under the circumstances.

“What you are calling a carton is essentially a splint in medical science. In cases of fractures, immobilising the affected area is crucial to prevent further internal damage,” he explained.

He also acknowledged limitations at the facility, noting the absence of an orthopaedic specialist or trained dresser at the time of treatment.

Begusarai Civil Surgeon Dr Ashok Kumar said he is aware of the viral video and has taken cognisance of the incident. "I have received information about the incident. The video has gone viral. I will get it investigated, and if anyone is found guilty, action will be taken," he said.

He further clarified that using a carton as a temporary splint is an accepted practice in emergency first aid. "But if this was done at the hospital, it will be investigated," he added.

[With TOI inputs]