The Karnataka Health Department has linked a series of maternal deaths at the Ballari district hospital to the use of potentially substandard ringer lactate solution, an intravenous fluid commonly used to maintain hydration and fluid balance. The incidents occurred following cesarean operations performed between November 9 and 11.
During this period, 34 cesarean procedures were conducted, of which seven patients developed severe complications, including acute kidney injury and multi-organ dysfunction. Tragically, four of these patients died, with one passing away on November 26. Two women have since been discharged, while one remains under treatment at the Vijayanagar Institute of Medical Sciences (VIMS), Ballari.
A confidential review conducted by specialists from the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences found no evidence of negligence or procedural lapses by the hospital’s medical team. The review confirmed that patient care protocols and guidelines were followed. Despite these efforts, complications persisted, raising suspicion about the ringer lactate solution administered post-surgery.
The intravenous fluid was supplied by Paschim Banga Pharmaceutical Ltd to the Karnataka State Medical Supplies Corporation Ltd (KSMSCL). Notably, all 192 batches from this supplier had been temporarily frozen earlier this year after two batches were flagged as substandard by the Drugs Control Department in March 2024. However, the usage of 84 batches resumed in August following clearance from the Central Drug Laboratories.
Currently, batch 26.2.9 of the ringer lactate solution has been withdrawn across the state for testing, and the fluids supplied to Ballari District Hospital are undergoing analysis. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao emphasized that stringent action will be taken based on the findings, as the use of substandard medical supplies poses severe risks to patient safety.