Orissa High Court Raises Alarms Over Open-Heart Surgery Mortality

Concerns surrounding the high mortality rate among patients undergoing open-heart surgery at the **SCB Medical College Hospital** in Cuttack, Odisha, have prompted a serious response from the **Orissa High Court**. A recent inquiry revealed that out of **85 open-heart surgeries performed** at the facility from January to August 2025, **26 patients** did not survive, raising significant alarm about patient care in the state’s largest public healthcare institution.

The court, led by **Justice S.K. Sahoo** and **Justice V. Narasingh**, reviewed data that indicated a troubling trend over the past three years. In **2023**, **165 surgeries** were conducted, resulting in **15 fatalities**. In **2024**, the number of surgeries decreased to **135**, yet the mortality rate increased, with **24 patients** dying post-operation. The court highlighted that the current year’s statistics show that nearly one-third of patients have not survived their procedures, a situation that demands urgent attention.

Government Response and Future Actions

During the proceedings, the court took **suo motu cognizance** of a report detailing complications leading to patient deaths following surgery. The **Health Secretary**, **S. Aswathi**, assured the bench that the government would address these issues. She emphasized the importance of maintaining quality care for patients requiring open-heart surgery and committed to conducting death audits to identify contributing factors.

The medical superintendent reported that reviews of the cases had been initiated, and the court requested a comprehensive presentation of these findings at the next hearing. The judges directed that the **Medical Superintendent of SCBMCH** provide complete data regarding the status of patients who survived the surgery and recommended forming a new team of qualified doctors in **Cardio Thoracic Vascular Surgery (CTVS)**. This new team would be tasked with addressing the demand for surgeries while considering patient costs, particularly in comparison to private facilities.

Addressing Patient Concerns and Improving Outcomes

The court’s ruling also stressed the necessity for enhanced support systems for patients preparing for open-heart surgery. The bench noted the rising number of patients who leave against medical advice (LAMA), which indicates a need for better counseling. In **2023**, **186 patients** were admitted for surgery, with **21** leaving against medical advice. In **2024**, **181 patients** were admitted, but **46** opted to leave. The trend continued in **2025**, where **138 patients** were admitted from January to August, with **53** leaving prematurely.

The judges emphasized that comprehensive investigations into the causes of postoperative deaths are crucial. They suggested that engaging patients in supervised cardiac rehabilitation programs could mitigate risks and improve recovery outcomes. Such programs would focus on enhancing physical function, ensuring adherence to medications, and providing lifestyle guidance.

As the court continues to monitor the situation, the overarching goal remains clear: to enhance patient safety and reduce mortality rates associated with open-heart surgery in Odisha. The judiciary’s proactive stance reflects a commitment to addressing public health concerns and improving the quality of care in one of the state’s primary healthcare institutions.