Couple Dies After Liver Transplant in Pune; Hospital Faces Inquiry

Swift Summary

• A woman,Kamini Komkar,donated a part of her liver to her husband,Bapu Komkar,in a transplant surgery at Pune’s Sahyadri Hospital on August 15.
• Bapu Komkar passed away on August 17 due to cardiogenic shock post-transplant. Kamini developed complications leading to septic shock and multi-organ dysfunction and died on August 21.
• Family members have alleged medical negligence and demanded an inquiry into the deaths.
• Maharashtra’s health department has issued a notice to Sahyadri Hospital seeking details of the procedures by 10 AM on monday (August 24).
• The hospital stated the surgeries adhered to standard medical protocols and confirmed its cooperation with the investigation.
• According to Sahyadri Hospital, both patients were informed of surgical risks in advance; Bapu was identified as a high-risk individual with multiple complications.

Indian Opinion Analysis

Liver transplants are among the most complex medical procedures, notably when involving living donors. this tragic incident highlights critical issues regarding post-surgical care for both recipients and donors. While it is indeed commendable that protocols were reportedly followed and risks communicated beforehand, the loss of two lives-combined with allegations from family members-raises concerns about possible gaps in execution or care standards.

For Maharashtra’s healthcare system, this case will serve as an meaningful litmus test for safeguarding patient rights during high-risk surgeries while ensuring accountability from private hospitals operating in sensitive domains like organ transplantation.The inquiry launched by health authorities is essential not only for justice but also for setting benchmarks around openness, clinical safety outcomes, and adherence to stringent procedural ethics across similar facilities nationwide.Read more: The Hindu