Bulovka University Hospital patient suffers burns during emergency C-section

A 24-year-old woman sustained second- and third-degree burns over approximately 15 percent of her body during an emergency C-section at Bulovka University Hospital in Prague. The incident occurred on August 25, 2026, during the final stages of the procedure.

Reports indicate that as doctors attempted to stop bleeding using a surgical instrument, a spark ignited the chemical disinfectant that had been applied to the patient's body. The flames affected sensitive areas, including the abdomen, hips, inner thighs, and genitals. While the mother required specialized burn treatment, her condition was reported as stable, and her newborn was unharmed.

Prague police have launched an investigation to determine if there was any criminal wrongdoing. The hospital has established an internal commission to review technical equipment and staff procedures. This incident follows a major scandal at the same clinic two years ago, where a mix-up involving two patients led to an unintended termination of pregnancy.