Thiruvananthapuram: A flow meter attached to an oxygen cylinder exploded at govt medical college hospital on Friday night, injuring a trainee anaesthesia technician. Hospital authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the equipment malfunction.Abhishek, 21, sustained an injury to his forehead in the incident and is currently admitted to the hospital's multidisciplinary ICU (MDICU).The flow meter attached to an oxygen cylinder in operation theatre B of the hospital suddenly burst. Parts of the device reportedly struck Abhishek's forehead as he was nearby. He was immediately rushed to the hospital's casualty department for first aid. After initial treatment, he returned to his hostel.

However, around 11pm, he experienced vomiting and discomfort, prompting a return to the hospital. Subsequent medical examinations, including a scan, revealed a minor skull fracture. Following this, he was admitted to the MDICU for further observation and care. Hospital authorities later clarified that while the injury appeared alarming, it was not life-threatening. They stated that Abhishek was initially treated with medication for the wound and discharged to rest at his hostel.

However, he was readmitted after he showed symptoms resembling a seizure. Further evaluation ruled out any serious complications but doctors decided to keep him under observation and continue with detailed assessments.Meanwhile, Dr BS Sunil Kumar, medical college superintendent, told TOI that it was a minor accident and it happened due due to the technician's inexperience. "It has been learned that the trainee had opened the cylinder carelessly. However, a detailed investigation is underway to find out the exact reason of the accident. He is stable now and will be discharged on Sunday," he said.