A Zhejiang working group investigates a child's death post-heart surgery due to medical errors, leading to suspensions, an autopsy, and citywide safety reforms.

A working group has been formed in Zhejiang to investigate the death of a child after heart surgery in Ningbo on November 14, following public outcry. The health commission found the medical team failed to properly assess risks, made surgical and anesthetic errors, delayed informing the family of complications, and neglected postoperative care. The lead surgeon, anesthesiologist, and pediatric intensive care physician were suspended and removed from leadership roles. An autopsy completed December 19 was reviewed by a 17-member expert panel, which agreed the surgery was necessary but disagreed on timing. A formal medical-accident appraisal is ongoing, and the family’s lawsuit has been accepted. Ningbo will launch a citywide effort to improve surgical safety, patient care, and medical record-keeping.