In a tragic case of medical negligence, a super speciality private hospital in New Delhi operated upon a youth's left leg instead of the affected right leg.

In a tragic case of medical negligence, a super speciality private hospital in New Delhi operated upon a youth's left leg instead of the affected right leg.

After Ravi Rai, a 24-year-old student, had a fall at his home on Sunday, his family took him to Fortis Hospital in Shalimar Bagh, where they were told that he had fractured his right heel bone and his condition was serious.

"After the doctors analysed the condition of our son, they suggested surgery on the injured right leg. We agreed to it as it was important according to them. However, we were shocked to know that instead of performing surgery on the injured leg they operated on the other leg," Ravi's father, Ramkaran Rai told IANS.

The family says that two rods were inserted into Ravi's left leg. Ravi underwent the surgery on Monday and on regaining consciousness he realised that the surgery was conducted on the wrong foot.

The Indian Express quotes Ramkaran as, “We found the left ankle was bandaged and on enquiry, we were told a pin had been inserted in it. When we raised an alarm, doctors came and apologised to us, and said they would operate him again, this time on his right leg. We were so angry we immediately asked for his discharge. How can such a reputed hospital make such a mistake? My son is still in so much pain and went through the surgery for nothing.”

According to a report by The Asian Age, the father adds that the negligence was caused due to the doctor’s confusion about the affected leg.

A report by Business Standard quotes from a statement issued by the hospital saying, "Patient safety is of paramount importance to us. We are deeply concerned and are looking into the matter and will take appropriate action as deemed necessary."

On the basis of a preliminary report of an expert committee, they have terminated the services of the operating surgeon and five other staff members who were in the operation theatre .

Ravi has been shifted to Max hospital for further treatment and his family members have registered a police complaint against the hospital. The Delhi Medical Council has also begun an inquiry.

According to a report by DNA, Delhi Medical Council Registrar Girish Tyagi said "we have taken suo motu cognisance. We will investigate the matter and take appropriate action."