Kyiv Doctor Faces Trial After Surgery Leaves Patient Blind

Otolaryngologist to Stand Trial in Kyiv

According to Главком: A 65-year-old otolaryngologist from a private medical center in Kyiv is facing criminal charges for professional negligence during a surgical procedure that resulted in a patient losing his sight. Prosecutors from the Dniprovskyi District Prosecutor's Office have filed an indictment against the doctor, accusing him of failing to properly perform his duties, which caused severe consequences for a 56-year-old patient. This case highlights the legal accountability of medical professionals in Ukraine.

Case Details

The patient sought treatment at the clinic for a scheduled operation involving septoplasty and the removal of a maxillary sinus cyst. Following the surgery, the man reported a complete loss of vision in one eye. A forensic medical examination concluded that the injuries sustained during the operation led to his disability.

The doctor's actions have been classified under Part 1 of Article 140 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which addresses the improper performance of professional duties due to negligent conduct. During the surgery, the doctor fractured a thin bone separating the nasal cavity from the orbit, causing bone fragments to damage the patient's optic nerve. The forensic examination confirmed a direct causal link between the surgeon's actions and the patient's health outcome.

The case will proceed to trial. The otolaryngologist was formally notified of the suspicion in March 2026 and has since resigned from the medical center. Medical malpractice cases of this severity are relatively rare but carry significant legal and professional repercussions.

This case underscores the critical importance of adhering to professional standards in medical practice, as negligence can lead to severe and irreversible consequences for patients.

The incident may prompt healthcare institutions to strengthen their quality control systems for medical services to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

This incident raises important questions about patient safety and the accountability of healthcare professionals. For a deeper understanding of similar cases and the legal implications surrounding medical negligence, you can read more about another recent incident involving a doctor in Kyiv here.