A case of alleged medical negligence has surfaced in Durg district, Chhattisgarh, where a nine-year-old child reportedly suffered prolonged pain and complications after a doctor applied a plaster based solely on an X-ray reviewed over a mobile phone, without direct specialist supervision.
The incident took place at Aastha Hospital in Utai area, where the child was treated for a fracture in his right arm.
X-Ray Shared on WhatsApp, Plaster Applied Locally
According to the family, the child, Salok Banjare, a resident of Patora village, sustained a fracture in an accident on December 26. He was taken to Aastha Hospital, where Dr Pawan Tiwari (BAMS/MD, D.Pharm) conducted an X-ray.
Instead of referring the child to an orthopaedic specialist, Dr Tiwari allegedly shared the X-ray image via WhatsApp with another doctor, Dr Saurabh Chandrakar, who occasionally visits the hospital for OPD consultations. Based on this telephonic advice, Dr Tiwari proceeded to apply a plaster on the child’s arm.
Child Continued to Suffer Pain and Swelling
Family members claimed that despite the plaster, the child continued to experience severe pain, swelling, and weakness in the arm for nearly a month. Suspecting improper healing, they returned to the hospital on Thursday for a follow-up.
When the plaster was removed, the family was reportedly shocked to find that the bone had healed at an abnormal angle, with no visible improvement in the fracture condition.
Family Demands Probe, Proper Treatment
The child’s uncle, Omprakash Banjare, alleged that the treatment was negligent and demanded an official inquiry.
“The child has been in pain for almost a month. The health department should investigate the matter and ensure he gets proper treatment from a qualified orthopaedic doctor,” he said.
The family has sought immediate corrective medical care and accountability from the hospital authorities.
Doctor Admits Possible Lapse
Responding to the allegations, Dr Pawan Tiwari, director of Aastha Hospital, admitted that he had shared the X-ray image with a specialist over mobile phone and followed the advice given.
“It is possible that there was some lapse in judgment,” he said.
Health Department Yet to Receive Complaint
Meanwhile, Durg Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) Dr Manoj Dani stated that no formal complaint has been received so far.
“Once a complaint is submitted, the matter will be investigated and appropriate action will be taken if any irregularity is found,” he assured.
The incident has raised serious questions about standards of fracture management, telephonic medical advice, and patient safety, especially in the treatment of children in semi-urban and rural healthcare facilities.
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