The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Prof. Kayode Olabanji, has announced the amicable resolution of an alleged case of ‘missing placenta’ against the institution.
In a statement released by the Head of Corporate Affairs at EKSUTH, Rolake Adewumi, it was revealed that the case was filed by Mr. Ojo Olaoluwa, a father of twins, at the Public Defender Office.
Prof. Olabanji commended the Public Defender Office and Ekiti Mediation, led by Bolanle Wale-Awe, for their role in resolving the issue peacefully.
He clarified that the placenta in question was not missing but was disposed of according to standard medical practice in hospitals when the father or direct relative of the baby is unavailable to claim it immediately.
Consultant Dr. Idowu Adeojo explained that the unbooked patient was brought to the hospital after delivering one baby at home but was unable to deliver the placenta. She was subsequently referred to EKSUTH from a Basic Health Center, where it was discovered that the problem was not just with the placenta but with a retained second twin.
Dr. Adeojo emphasized that medical personnel in the Maternity Department made efforts to ensure the successful delivery of the second baby and to save the mother’s life, resulting in both the mother and twin children being alive.
He further noted that the father of the twins was unavailable until 24 hours after the delivery, and due to the dangers associated with biological waste, the hospital could not retain the placenta for an extended period.
Mr. Ojo, the father of the babies, corroborated this account, acknowledging his absence during the crucial period and expressing concern for the babies’ safety.
In conclusion, the resolution of the issue underscores the collaborative efforts of all parties involved in ensuring the well-being of the mother and twins.
The statement added that “efforts were made by the officers of the Public Defender to authenticate the claim of the Hospital Management on the disposition of placenta from an independent Medical Doctor outside Ekiti State and the Physician affirmed it”.
“At the end, the Head of the Public Defender, Barrister Wale-Awe was able to resolve the issues peacefully and both parties were satisfied and very happy at the end of the resolution.”