Inquiry Launched⁤ into Woman’s Death Following Lumbar Injection

SILEA, Italy – An investigation is underway ⁢into teh death of an‍ 84-year-old woman, Alberto Furlanetto, who died on⁣ April 17, following a lumbar injection administered more than a year‍ prior. An autopsy conducted on April 30 confirmed the cause of death as pneumonia and multi-organ failure, but further laboratory tests are needed to determine if there is a causal link to the injection she received on january 23, 2024, to treat sciatica.

Following the ‍injection, Furlanetto experienced a prolonged period⁤ of health issues, including an extended hospital stay and subsequent placement in a care ‍facility, which reportedly necessitated the family selling their home⁤ to cover the costs.

Autopsy Results and Further Investigation

The autopsy reiterated that Furlanetto’s death resulted from a lung infection combined with pre-existing conditions affecting ⁢other vital organs. Investigators will now meticulously examine whether ‍the lumbar injection contributed to the ‍decline in her health. This‍ will ⁢involve analyzing all available clinical data, including medical records, in addition to the pending laboratory results.

Given the complexity of the case, the Prosecutor’s Office is likely to appoint a panel of ⁢experts to assist in the investigation.

Manslaughter Investigation and Physician Involvement

Public Prosecutor Giovanni Valmassoi has opened a⁣ manslaughter investigation and has named Francesco Cavasin, Furlanetto’s general practitioner and ‍a rheumatologist, as a person of⁢ interest. Authorities emphasize that ⁣Cavasin’s inclusion in the investigation is a procedural measure to⁤ ensure his rights are protected,⁢ including the⁣ right to appoint a consultant who was present during the autopsy.

Family Concerns and Timeline of Events

The⁢ investigation was‍ initiated following concerns raised by Furlanetto’s family.⁤ After the lumbar injection ⁣in January‍ 2024, the ⁢woman reportedly experienced severe back pain shortly after returning home. She was then admitted to Ca’ Foncello di Treviso hospital, ⁣where she was sedated and subsequently transferred to⁣ the intensive ⁢care unit.

After two months, Furlanetto was discharged, although her condition ‍remained compromised. Hospital staff noted in their final report⁤ that she suffered from “aseptic encephalitis” affecting multiple organs.Faced with her deteriorating health, the family opted for her placement in a residential care facility. Her ⁣condition continued to decline, ultimately leading to her ⁢death from pneumonia on April 17 after a brief return to the hospital.