No emergency surgery for Kerala Minister Veena George, ICU care to continue, says medical board

The medical board reviewing the health of Kerala Minister for Health Veena George has decided to continue her treatment in the intensive care unit of the Kannur Government Medical College Hospital, stating that while she is experiencing severe pain due to a neck injury, there is no need for emergency surgery at present.

A medical bulletin released by K. Sudeep, superintendent, said that a 13-member board, which met on Thursday, assessed that the Minister has obtained partial relief from the ongoing treatment for severe radicular pain radiating to her right arm and the back of the head. Her high blood pressure is being controlled with medication. Treatment is being administered in accordance with established pain management protocols.

According to the MRI findings reviewed by the board, the severe pain is caused by pressure on the cervical exiting nerve roots at two locations in the neck. As continuous monitoring is necessary and travel is not advisable in her current condition, the board resolved to continue ICU care at the hospital.

KSU protest

On Wednesday, the Minister sustained injuries to her neck and hand during a protest staged by Kerala Students Union (KSU) activists at the Kannur railway station. A team of expert doctors examined her at the Kannur district hospital. The evaluation covered her neck injury as well as pain, swelling, and weakness in her right hand.

Based on clinical findings and diagnostic tests she was shifted to the ICU of the medical college hospital for further evaluation and treatment.