Without an orthopedist or cast: unusual treatment for a broken leg in India

A video from a government hospital in India has sparked a public outcry after a road accident victim's broken leg was immobilized using pieces of cardboard and rope. Hospital management claims this is an accepted emergency splinting technique, but authorities are now investigating the incident.

The viral video shows a young man lying in a hospital bed with his broken leg secured using cardboard from medicine packaging, rope, and bandages. The footage has drawn sharp criticism regarding the state of public medical services in the state of Bihar.

According to the Times of India, the victim, Kunal Kumar, a resident of a local village, was injured in a motorcycle accident on Monday evening. He suffered a fracture to his right leg and was rushed to the regional hospital by relatives and local residents.

Reports indicate that staff members placed two pieces of cardboard on either side of the broken leg and tied them in place with rope and bandages. After receiving this initial aid, Kumar was referred to another hospital for further treatment.

Asianet News reported that no orthopedist or paramedic authorized to perform immobilization was present at the hospital at the time, and there were no supplies available to apply a proper cast. It was also revealed that the facility is not equipped to provide comprehensive treatment for fractures resulting from road accidents.

Dr. Abhinav Priyadarshi, the official in charge of the hospital, confirmed the shortage of staff and equipment but rejected claims that the treatment was improper:

"What you call cardboard is called a splint in medicine. When a bone breaks, the area must be immobilized to prevent further internal damage. The use of available material as a splint is justified according to medical protocol."