TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A woman has been in a coma since May 25 following sedation at Fairy Clinic in Taipei’s Daan District, the Taipei City Department of Health said Friday.
The patient lost consciousness after being administered the sedative propofol during the procedure. She was taken to the hospital, where she remains in a coma, according to CNA.
Propofol is a medical anesthetic commonly used via intravenous injection for inducing sleep, suppressing breathing and heart rate, primarily used for anesthesia and sedation. However, it carries risks such as slowed heartbeat and respiratory depression, which can be fatal if not carefully monitored, according to the Ministry of Health and Welfare.
On Thursday, the Taipei City Department of Health contacted the clinic and the attending physician, Wu (吳), to investigate whether the clinic’s operations and medical procedures comply with regulations. Calls to the clinic went unanswered.
Fairy Clinic was licensed for operation in 2022. It employs two registered practicing physicians, including Wu.
Officials were unable to conduct an on-site inspection Friday morning as the clinic was closed. A formal notice was posted on the door requesting an explanation and the case has been handed over to judicial authorities for investigation.
The patient’s family has been informed of their right to apply for medical dispute mediation under the Medical Accident Prevention and Dispute Resolution Act. If the physician is found guilty of medical negligence, disciplinary action will be taken according to the Physicians Act.
Taipei Veterans General Hospital anesthesiology chief Ting Chien-kun (丁乾坤) said propofol is the preferred intravenous anesthetic for cosmetic procedures, painless endoscopies, and surgeries. It works quickly, wears off fast, and causes fewer side effects like dizziness or nausea, according to CommonHealth.
In Taiwan, only anesthesiologists and critical care doctors are allowed to use propofol. It must be given in an operating room or intensive care unit with proper monitoring.
Patients must be given oxygen and have a clear airway. Otherwise, breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate can slow dangerously, posing a serious risk to life.
