Thai Hospital Faces Scrutiny After Fatal Dental Procedure Error

Patient Death During Routine Dental Surgery

A private hospital in Chiang Rai, Thailand, is under investigation following the death of 33-year-old Katesuda Buanark during what was intended to be a straightforward dental procedure. The incident, which occurred on December 19, 2024, has raised serious questions about medical protocols and patient safety measures at the facility.

Background of the Case

Ms. Buanark, who worked as a traditional Thai dancer in Singapore and lived there with her husband and nine-year-old daughter, had returned to her home province of Chiang Rai on December 12 for a family visit. The dental surgery was prompted by injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident while attending a nephew’s school sports event, resulting in damage to her front teeth.

Medical Transfer Decision

Initially treated at a state hospital, Ms. Buanark was transferred to a private facility for dental surgery. The decision was influenced by concerns about how the dental injury might impact her performing career in Singapore, where she worked as a part-time traditional Thai dancer.

Fatal Medical Error

The procedure, which the medical team had assured would be brief, took a tragic turn when staff members acknowledged a critical error involving the oxygen supply. The patient was deprived of oxygen for approximately five minutes during the operation, leading to her death.

Hospital Response and Family’s Position

While the hospital has indicated willingness to provide compensation, specific details regarding the amount and timeline remain unconfirmed. The institution has requested documentation of Ms. Buanark’s income, a move that has added to the family’s distress.

The family expressed their profound loss in an interview with Channel 7, stating that “no amount of compensation could ever replace Katesuda.” Their grief is compounded by the loss of a primary breadwinner and mother to a young child.

Current Developments

Reports indicate that Ms. Buanark’s husband is currently collecting necessary documentation and planning to travel to Thailand to attend her funeral and pursue accountability measures against the hospital. The case highlights ongoing concerns about medical safety protocols and compensation processes in private healthcare facilities.