Police in Italy are conducting an investigation following the death of a student after elective surgery to address a rare condition causing abdominal bloating. Francesca Tucci passed away three days after undergoing surgery for Wilkie’s syndrome, a rare gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal bloating triggered by specific foods. This condition occurs when a portion of the small intestine becomes compressed between the aorta and the superior mesenteric artery.
The 24-year-old chose to have the surgery at Antonio Cardarelli Hospital in Naples, Italy, following consultations with specialists in Milan and Rome. The procedure, performed on June 29 under Italy’s intramoenia system, where doctors from the National Health Service can conduct private work within public hospitals, was unsuccessful. Francesca’s condition deteriorated rapidly on July 1, leading to emergency surgery, but tragically, she passed away on July 2 shortly after being transferred to intensive care.
The public prosecutor’s office in Naples has launched a manslaughter investigation in response to a complaint from Francesca’s family. Surgeon Felice Pirozzi and healthcare professionals Giuseppe Magno and Francesca Duro are under investigation as part of the inquiry. The family, who paid over €10,000 for the procedure and €500 per day for Francesca’s hospital room, expressed deep anguish over the loss of their daughter.
Francesca, a law student at Parthenope University in Afragola, was described as a vibrant young woman with a promising future by the university. Her family believes there were lapses in timely and adequate care during her critical moments, expressing frustration over the lack of communication and support they received.
