A tragic incident unfolded in Turkey where a 54-year-old mother of two, Janet Lynne Savage from Gwynedd, lost her life during a gastric sleeve operation. Janet, a driving examiner from Penrhosgarnedd near Bangor, had sought the surgery to aid in her weight loss journey of shedding three stone. The operation, which took place at a private hospital in southern Turkey, encountered complications leading to a series of medical issues during the procedure. Despite efforts by medical staff, Janet succumbed to acute bleeding loss caused by an injury to her abdominal aorta, which was attempted to be repaired during the gastric sleeve surgery.
The distressing details of Janet’s untimely passing were revealed during an inquest held in Caernarfon. Reports indicated that Janet had arranged the surgery through a travel company called Reginis Health Travel, based in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire. The firm facilitated flights, accommodations, and medical procedures at the Ozel Rich Hospital in Kiziltoprak, Turkey. Statements presented during the inquest highlighted Janet’s concerns about the surgeon and the operation itself, emphasizing her pre-surgery apprehensions.
Following the procedure, which took place on August 5, 2024, Janet’s condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to her unfortunate demise the next day. The family’s arrival in Antalya to be with Janet was met with the devastating news of her passing due to a heart attack and severe internal bleeding. Medical professionals attempted interventions, including repairing the major artery trauma, but Janet’s condition worsened, culminating in her heartbreaking death. The coroner’s findings pointed towards acute blood loss resulting from the reparative measures taken during the gastric sleeve surgery as the cause of Janet’s death.
The inquest shed light on the sequence of events that unfolded during Janet’s surgery in Turkey, painting a sombre picture of the complications and challenges faced by both Janet and the medical team involved. Efforts to resuscitate Janet were ultimately unsuccessful, highlighting the severity of the medical emergency that transpired during the procedure. The heartbreaking loss of Janet Savage serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with surgical interventions, underscoring the importance of thorough pre-operative assessments and vigilant post-operative care to prevent such tragedies from reoccurring.
The tragic incident in Turkey resonates deeply within the community, prompting reflections on the complexities and risks involved in medical procedures, especially those performed abroad. Janet’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the unforeseeable challenges that can arise even during routine surgeries. As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding Janet’s passing, the need for stringent oversight and accountability in medical tourism practices comes to the forefront, ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals seeking treatment outside their home countries.
The family, friends, and colleagues of Janet Savage are left grappling with the profound loss of a beloved mother, wife, and community member. The ripple effects of her passing serve as a sobering reminder of the importance of prioritising patient safety and well-being in all medical interventions. As the details of Janet’s case continue to unfold, the healthcare industry faces renewed scrutiny and calls for enhanced regulations to safeguard individuals undertaking medical procedures, both domestically and internationally. Janet’s memory lives on as a testament to the fragility of life and the enduring impact of unexpected tragedies on loved ones left behind.