Italian authorities are currently looking into the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of a student who passed away post-elective surgery in Italy to address a rare medical condition causing abdominal swelling.
Francesca Tucci, a 24-year-old, lost her life three days after undergoing surgery to treat Wilkie’s syndrome, a unique gastrointestinal ailment that results in abdominal bloating triggered by specific food consumption. This disorder occurs when a segment of the small intestine becomes compressed between the aorta and the superior mesenteric artery.
Seeking specialized consultations in Milan and Rome, Francesca opted for the surgical procedure at Antonio Cardarelli Hospital in Naples, Italy. The operation, conducted on June 29 under Italy’s intramoenia system, which permits National Health Service doctors to perform private procedures within public hospital facilities where they are employed.
Unfortunately, her condition deteriorated on the night of July 1, experiencing vomiting and recurrent fainting episodes. Following a CT scan, medical professionals determined the need for emergency surgery, which was unsuccessful, leading to Francesca’s passing on July 2 shortly after being moved to intensive care. Subsequently, the Naples Public Prosecutor’s Office initiated a manslaughter inquiry based on a complaint filed by Francesca’s family on July 3.
Surgeon Felice Pirozzi, alongside healthcare practitioners Giuseppe Magno and Francesca Duro, are currently under investigation as part of the investigative process, with an autopsy carried out to gather more information.
Expressing his grief, Francesca’s father, Vincenzo, stated: “It wasn’t a life-saving operation. My daughter was well.” The family incurred costs exceeding €10,000 (£8,550) for the procedure, in addition to €500 (£428) per day for Francesca’s hospital accommodation.
Vincenzo lamented, “I paid, and despite that, I watched my daughter die.” Francesca, a resident of Afragola, was close to finishing her law degree at Parthenope University, where she was described as a vibrant, determined individual with a promising future ahead.
In a statement, Francesca’s family expressed concerns about the perceived lack of timely and adequate assistance during her critical moments, highlighting the distress of waiting for information without receiving necessary support.
