Doctor Convicted for Medical Negligence in Tragic 2011 Abortion Case Leading to Quadruple Amputation

The Bordeaux Court of Appeal has upheld the conviction of Dr. François Vandenbossche for involuntary injuries stemming from his medical negligence in the 2011 case of Priscilla Dray, who suffered the quadruple amputation of her limbs after a botched abortion.

On July 23, 2011, 35-year-old Priscilla Dray developed a high fever following the abortion procedure. Despite the intern's suspicion of an infectious syndrome, the supervising physician, Dr. Martial Dekhili, decided not to administer antibiotics or closely monitor her condition. Dray was subsequently readmitted to the emergency department, where delays in treatment and failure to promptly administer antibiotics led to severe infection complications. She was placed in an artificial coma and ultimately survived, but only after all four of her limbs were amputated.

Initially, in April 2025, Dr. Vandenbossche was sentenced by the Bordeaux correctional tribunal to nine months suspended prison time and fined €8,000. The recent appeal reduced his sentence to six months with suspension while maintaining the fine. Dr. Dekhili, who was also sentenced to six months suspended prison in the first instance, withdrew his appeal and accepted the verdict. Notably, neither physician faced any suspension or prohibition from practicing medicine despite the court's decision highlighting their inadequate care.

This ruling underscores the severe consequences of medical negligence in reproductive healthcare and the legal responsibilities of physicians. Authorities continue to grapple with ensuring patient safety and accountability in medical procedures such as abortion.

As of January 16, 2026, Dr. Vandenbossche and Dr. Dekhili remain free to continue practicing medicine, though their convictions serve as a cautionary precedent in French medical and legal circles.