While much of the public focus has remained on the dozens of fatalities linked to a cardiac surgery scandal at Zurich University Hospital, the stories of those who survived offer a different perspective on the trauma. Daniel Rüegg, a former IT specialist, is one such survivor who nearly lost his life following a heart valve operation.
Rüegg’s ordeal began in August 2018 after he developed a high fever. A family doctor discovered he was suffering from endocarditis, an inflammation of the heart’s inner wall that can be fatal if left untreated.
After an initial admission to the Kantonsspital of St. Gallen, Rüegg was transferred to Zurich University Hospital for open-heart surgery. He recalls being told the procedure would be routine and minimally invasive.
A Catastrophic Complication
On September 13, 2018, Francesco Maisano, then head of the cardiac clinic, performed the surgery. While the operation itself was initially reported as having proceeded without problems, a subsequent medical reaction turned the procedure into a disaster.
To stabilize his circulation, Rüegg was administered a medication called Physiogel. However, the drug’s manufacturer warns that it should be used with caution in patients with allergic reactions, such as asthma—a condition Rüegg has.
Rüegg suffered an anaphylactic shock that caused his heart to stop. Medical staff spent 35 minutes resuscitating him before his condition was stabilized.
The Long Road to Recovery
The initial cardiac arrest was only the beginning of a grueling recovery process. Rüegg spent 40 days in intensive care and several months in a rehabilitation clinic.
He underwent more than 20 emergency operations, including fasciotomies to drain fluids from his arms and legs. These procedures left him with permanent scarring on his limbs.
Rüegg describes the aftermath as a nightmare that lasted years, during which he had to relearn basic functions such as walking, talking and swallowing.
Questions of Accountability
Erika Ziltener, a nurse, historian, and former head of the canton’s patient service, has criticized the handling of Rüegg’s case. She noted that the non-urgent surgery appeared to have been organized with undue haste.
Ziltener also highlighted a significant lack of accountability, noting that Francesco Maisano never visited Rüegg or explained what had happened after the complications arose.
In July 2023, Rüegg sought compensation from Zurich University Hospital. The institution rejected the claim, stating that no breach of medical duty had occurred and suggesting another medication could have caused the shock.
Looking Ahead
Although Rüegg no longer wishes to pursue legal action, the hospital’s refusal to provide detailed answers to press inquiries may lead to further scrutiny of its internal protocols.
other survivors of the “Maisano system” could come forward, which may put additional pressure on the institution to re-examine past cases.
Francesco Maisano now practices at the San Raffaele private hospital in Milan, which has not responded to requests for comment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Francesco Maisano?
He is the former head of the cardiac clinic at Zurich University Hospital, appointed in 2014, and currently practices at the San Raffaele private hospital in Milan.
What caused Daniel Rüegg’s heart to stop?
Rüegg suffered an anaphylactic shock and cardiac arrest after being administered Physiogel, a medication used to stabilize circulation that carries risks for patients with asthma.
How many excess deaths are linked to this scandal?
Reports indicate that between 2016 and 2020, there were between 68 and 74 more deaths than statistically expected during operations under the responsible lead.
Do you believe medical institutions should be held to a higher standard of transparency when “statistically unexpected” mortality rates are discovered?
Worth a look