Surgeon allegedly operates on wrong part of mouth

[May 14, 2009]  PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) -- Officials at a Providence hospital group said an oral surgeon began operating on the wrong part of a patient's mouth this week before discovering the error.

It's the fifth wrong-site surgery in the last two years in the Lifespan hospital chain.

Timothy Babineau, president of Rhode Island Hospital, said that the mistake occurred Monday at Hasbro Children's Hospital.

Babineau said Wednesday the surgical team was able to perform the correct procedure with "good results." He said the patient is in good condition and no complications are expected.

A hospital spokeswoman said the state Department of Health is investigating.

[Associated Press]

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