Abstract

Reports of major surgical interventions based on incorrect diagnoses have raised significant concerns within the medical community. These errors expose patients to the inherent risks of surgery, including complications from general anaesthesia, challenges with blood transfusions, the potential for wound sepsis, and the risk of septicaemia if aseptic techniques are not meticulously followed. Instances of wrong-site amputations and confusion over surgical sites, such as herniorrhaphy locations, have been documented.

This paper presents a case of a missed diagnosis leading to an unnecessary exploratory laparotomy in an adult male patient initially diagnosed with intestinal obstruction due to severe abdominal pain. Intraoperative findings revealed no abdominal pathology, and the correct diagnosis of tender hepatomegaly secondary to congestive cardiac failure was established. The patient recovered well after the proper treatment regimen was initiated.

This case highlights the critical need for accurate diagnosis to avoid unnecessary surgical risks and prompts reflection on how many similar cases may have had less fortunate outcomes.

Key words: Misdiagnosis, Heart Failure, Intestinal Obstruction, Surgical Intervention, Case Report