How should money collected for a surgical operation for a patient be handled, when it's impossible to obtain a reliable medical report for her condition, and difficult to return the funds to their owners?

Most often, money given for an operation is a charity (sadaqah) that is not reclaimed; it becomes the property of the woman to dispose of as she wishes. However, if it is known that they gave it solely for the purpose of assisting with the operation, then it must be returned to its owners if the purpose is not achieved. If it is not possible to return it, then it should be given as charity on their behalf. When the owner returns, he is given the choice between affirming the charity or reclaiming the money. There is no need to rush this decision until it is certain that the operation will not be beneficial.