A documentary series uncovers the behind-the-scenes of the investigation against surgeon João Couto Neto, suspected of causing at least 40 deaths and injuries to over 100 patients in Novo Hamburgo, Rio Grande do Sul. The production premieres on January 8 on Globoplay and features testimonies from family members, authorities, and the doctor himself.
The series "Oath Breaker — A Doctor in the Dock", with three episodes, features interviews with family members of the alleged victims, delegates, lawyers, doctors, and researchers. It also includes depositions given by surgeon João Couto Neto to the police.
The cases took place in Novo Hamburgo, in the Metropolitan Region of Porto Alegre. Couto Neto worked as a specialist in videolaparoscopy surgeries, mainly for hernia, gallbladder, and endometriosis procedures.
Medical records show he performed up to 25 procedures in a single shift. According to police, this volume prevented proper care in both the interventions and post-operatives, leading to the injuries and deaths.
The production highlights the ongoing investigation against the doctor, accused of injuring over 100 patients. The premiere is scheduled for January 8, 2025, on Globoplay.