Eastern Cape Woman Pursues Accountability for Paralysis Following Dental Operation

SOUTH AFRICA: Thobeka Jantjies, a woman from the Eastern Cape, continues her quest for accountability after allegedly becoming paralysed subsequent to a dental operation performed at Cecilia Makhiwane Hospital two decades ago. 

The incident occurred during a tooth extraction procedure in 2002, and Jantjies maintains that her life took a tragic turn after the surgery.

Seeking Answers and Redress

Jantjies asserts that she has been bedridden ever since the dental surgery, unable to walk, feed herself, or perform daily tasks. She describes a life of dependency, marked by constant assistance from her 24-year-old son and the occasional aid of a neighbour. 

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Expressing her determination to hold the Department of Health accountable, she highlights the emotional toll this ordeal has taken on her family. She mentions her desire to achieve justice, even if she’s no longer around, in order to bring peace to her life and her family’s future.

Denials and Allegations

However, the Department of Health maintains that they are not responsible for Jantjies’ condition. According to Yonela Dekeda, a Department of Health spokesperson, internal investigations have been conducted. 

The department reportedly agreed to provide Jantjies with a payment of half a million rand in 2013 as an act of humanitarian goodwill, although she claims to have not received the money. Despite Jantjies’ allegations of medical negligence, both internal clinical investigations conducted by the department and a subsequent investigation by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) found no definitive link between her paralysis and the dental procedure.

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A Long Struggle for Resolution

The 48-year-old Jantjies is now considering legal action against the department to seek justice for her condition. Her neighbor, Ntomboxolo Dayimani, empathizes with her situation and highlights the daily challenges she faces due to her paralysis.

As the struggle for accountability continues, Jantjies’ case underscores the importance of ensuring patient safety and transparency in medical procedures, particularly in instances where serious consequences arise. While investigations have been conducted, the pursuit of answers and resolution continues for Jantjies and her family.