Anesthesiologist Convicted of Malpractice Denies Role in Patient's Death

Inés Miralles, the anesthesiologist convicted of malpractice in the death of pediatrician Soledad Barrera, has publicly denied her involvement, stating, "I don't think it was me."

Barrera died 10 months after a routine gallbladder surgery on October 26, 2023, during which she suffered cardiopulmonary arrest and fell into a vegetative state. Miralles was convicted of culpable homicide on December 18, 2025, through an abbreviated process and initially received a five-year ban from practicing medicine. However, the Minister of Public Health, Cristina Lustemberg, along with the Honorary Commission of Public Health, reduced this ban to three years, a decision that has sparked political controversy and accusations.

Speaking in an interview with Informativo Carve (Radio Carve), Miralles asserted her innocence and suggested that others involved in the surgery might be responsible. "Several of us have identified those responsible, but there is no proof; just as there is no proof to incriminate me," she stated. Miralles also addressed and denied allegations of fentanyl addiction.

The case has become a focal point for political debate regarding the Ministry of Public Health's decision to reduce Miralles's professional ban. Critics argue that this decision undermines justice for the victim and her family, while supporters of the reduced ban may point to mitigating factors or the complexities of the legal process.

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I don't think it was me and several of us have identified those responsible, but there is no proof; just as there is no proof to incriminate me.