Khaleda Zia placed on elective ventilator support at Evercare: Medical board

BNP Chairperson and former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia remains in critical condition at Evercare Hospital, where she is on elective ventilator support and receiving intensive care for multiple serious complications, according to the medical board overseeing her treatment.

In its latest update provided today (11 December), the board said that the former premier is being treated round the clock by a team of local and foreign specialists, as several of her vital organs continue to be under severe stress.

It said that over the past few days, several serious complications have been detected.

"Her breathing difficulties increased, her oxygen level fell, and carbon dioxide levels rose. She was treated with High Flow Nasal Cannula and BiPAP support, but as there was no improvement, she was placed on elective ventilator support to give rest to her lungs and other vital organs," the board said.

On 27 November, it said doctors diagnosed acute pancreatitis, which is still being treated.

"Due to severe bacterial and fungal infections, she is receiving advanced antibiotics and antifungal medicines. Her kidney function has stopped completely, and she is undergoing regular dialysis," the board mentioned.

Owing to gastrointestinal bleeding and a condition called Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC), it said she is being given blood and blood products as required.

"As her fever persisted and echocardiography showed issues in the aortic valve, a Transoesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) was performed. It confirmed infective endocarditis, a serious infection of the heart valve. Treatment for this has been started according to international guidelines," the physicians said.

The also said the multidisciplinary medical board, led by cardiologist Prof Shahabuddin Talukder, said specialists from Bangladesh and abroad are continuously monitoring her and providing every possible treatment.

The board urged all concerned not to circulate speculation or misinformation about her condition and to respect her privacy and dignity. "Our medical team is working with the highest level of care, attention and sincerity."

The medical board and Khaleda Zia's family have requested everyone to pray for her recovery.

Khaleda Zia has long been suffering from a number of chronic and complex health problems, including liver complications, kidney disease, heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis and recurring infections.

While staying at her Gulshan residence recently, she developed shortness of breath, cough, fever and increased weakness.

As her condition worsened, she was admitted to Evercare Hospital on 23 November. Following tests, doctors found a rapid deterioration in the functions of her lungs, heart and kidneys.

She was immediately shifted from a cabin to the Critical Care Unit for advanced treatment and close monitoring.