Doctor had her best interests in mind, says SGH surgery chief

SINGAPORE — The doctor in Ms Sarina Kaur’s case had her “best interests in mind” when the decision was made to continue with the procedure under “suitable antibiotic cover”,  said Professor London Lucien Ooi, SGH’s Division of Surgery chairman today (Nov 6).

This was because there were “no symptoms of infection” despite a positive urine culture result indicating the presence of bacteria in her urine, he said in an email response to TODAY.

Ms Kaur, 51, is suing the Singapore General Hospital and two of its doctors for negligence, after a “simple, straightforward and low-risk”  procedure carried out in 2012 allegedly caused her to lose her hands and lower legs.

Prof Ooi said the septic shock she suffered after a “routine procedure” could possibly have been due to her multiple underlying conditions. He added that the presence of bacteria without other symptoms is not conclusive of an infection and the procedure could continue, provided underlying conditions were considered and appropriate steps were taken to minimise risks.

“In Ms Kaur’s case, the urine culture had identified the particular bacterium, and a treating dose of antibiotic which the bacterium was sensitive to was prescribed to cover any possible infection,” he said.

“We have given Ms Kaur our full support throughout her treatment as we understand that the complication has been devastating for her and her family. Her wellbeing remains our priority, and we are committed to providing her with continued appropriate care.”