Category Archives: Health

Karnataka’s First: Innovative Brain Stimulation Surgery Treats Epilepsy in 21-Year-Old Yemeni Patient

Bengaluru, 26th May 2025: Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road achieved ground-breaking success by performing Karnataka’s first targeted Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery to treat drug-resistant epilepsy. The procedure was led by Dr Raghuram G, Additional Director of Neurosurgery and Dr Guruprasad Hosurkar – Additional Director of Neurology. The patient, a 21-year-old male from Yemen, had been battling uncontrollable seizures for over 12 years. The patient was discharged within four days of the procedure and has reported remarkable improvement, with no seizures post-surgery.

Patient Mr. Mohamad (name changed) had been battling epilepsy that disrupted nearly every aspect of his daily routine. A bright pharmacy student, his ambitions were constantly derailed by multiple seizure attacks ranging from uncontrollable muscle movements and tremors to blank staring spells that occurred almost every day. Despite being on four strong anti-epileptic medications and visiting multiple hospitals, his condition did not improve. The seizures left him emotionally drained, socially isolated and physically weak.

Upon his arrival at Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road, the doctors meticulously evaluated his condition. While studying the specialized MRI and CT images, the doctors observed abnormal electrical activity in a rather widespread part of the brain and concluded that the patient’s seizures originated from those spots, rather than from a single focal point. In view of the severity of his condition, the doctors opted for an innovative approach – the Deep Brain Stimulation – a neurosurgical procedure used to regulate abnormal brain signals, targeting brain’s Centromedian Nucleus of thalamus on both sides.

Explaining the procedure, Dr Raghuram G – Additional Director, Neurosurgery, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road Bengaluru, said, “Deep Brain Stimulation is a precise and delicate procedure. We planned the entire procedure in minute detail using detailed brain scans and computer simulations. During the surgery, we placed thin wires (called electrodes) deep inside the brain with great accuracy. These wires were placed in an area called the Centromedian Nucleus, which helps control seizures. A guiding frame was used to make sure the placement was safe and accurate. The wires were then connected to a small battery-powered device, like a pacemaker for the brain, which was placed under the skin in the chest. This device sends gentle electrical signals to help stop the abnormal brain activity that causes seizures. The surgery went very smoothly, and the patient recovered well. He was walking the next day and has not had a seizure ever since.”

Dr Guruprasad Hosurkar – Additional Director Neurology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road Bengaluru said, “This young patient had a complex form of epilepsy that did not respond to medications, even after years of treatment. Since the seizures were coming from multiple areas of the brain, surgery to remove one part wasn’t an option. That’s why we chose Deep Brain Stimulation, targeting a specific area called the centromedian nucleus in the thalamus. This area helps control seizure activity. By sending small electrical signals to this part of the brain, we were able to significantly reduce his seizures and improve his quality of life. “

Following the successful brain surgery, the patient was discharged just four days later. He recovered quickly and began light physical therapy to help regain strength. Since the procedure, he has shown remarkable improvement; he has not had any seizures, feels more energetic, and has returned to his daily activities with confidence.

Mr. Akshay Oleti, Business Head, Fortis Hospitals Bengaluru, said, “This successful surgery reflects our ongoing commitment to bringing advanced, life-changing treatments to patients from across the globe. By offering Karnataka’s first Deep Brain Stimulation for epilepsy targeting the Centromedian Nucleus, we are proud to give hope to those who have exhausted other options. This case is a powerful example of how innovation, teamwork, and compassionate care can truly transform lives.”

High-Quality Knee Replacement Surgery Now Available for Just Rs1,10,000 at Apex Group of Hospitals

Mumbai – In a move set to bring relief to thousands suffering from chronic knee pain, Apex Group of Hospitals, known for providing high-quality medical care in Mumbai, has announced that advanced knee replacement surgery (for one knee) is now available for just ₹1,10,000. Combining state-of-the-art technology, a team of expert doctors, and world-class facilities, this decision marks a significant step toward making orthopedic care more accessible and affordable for the common man.

Knee pain has become increasingly common due to today’s fast-paced lifestyle and age-related wear and tear. It severely affects mobility and quality of life. For many, knee replacement surgery is the only permanent and effective solution. However, the high cost of this procedure has kept it out of reach for a large section of society. Understanding this pressing need, Apex Group of Hospitals has stepped forward with this affordable surgery package.

Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Vrajesh Shah, Medical Director at Apex Group of Hospitals, said, “We believe that quality healthcare is a fundamental right of every citizen. Our goal is to make world-class medical services accessible to all. Knee replacement surgery can be life-changing for many, and by offering it at just ₹1,10,000, we hope to reach patients across all socio-economic backgrounds. This initiative is a step toward extending advanced orthopedic care to every corner of society.”

He also added that eligible patients can receive financial assistance of up to ₹50,000 under the Chief Minister’s Assistance Fund, which can further reduce their out-of-pocket expenses.

The hospital is fully equipped with advanced surgical infrastructure, including cutting-edge operation theatres, experienced orthopedic surgeons, and a highly trained medical team. Every patient receives end-to-end care—pre-operative assessments, the surgery itself, and post-operative rehabilitation—through a comprehensive treatment plan.

This offer is not limited to a single branch; it is available at all major Apex Group of Hospitals locations. The initiative is being rolled out for a limited time and will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

Apex Group of Hospitals urges all those suffering from knee problems not to miss this opportunity. With affordability, safety, and quality at its core, this initiative is expected to benefit thousands of patients who have been postponing surgery due to financial constraints.

Know Your Blood Pressure and Keep It Under Check

Dr. Murali Krishna CH V, Senior Neuro Phisician CARE Hospitals, Malakpet stated, “Hypertension is often symptomless in its early stages, which is why it’s called the silent killer. However, if left unchecked, it can cause irreversible damage to organs and lead to serious complications such as stroke, heart attack, vision loss, and kidney failure. Awareness and timely management can truly save lives.”

India’s First Robotic Through the Mouth Surgery by MGM Cures Rare Throat Condition

Chennai, 16^th May 2025: MGM Healthcare has successfully performed India’s first Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS), a minimally invasive procedure conducted through the mouth with robotic assistance, on a 52-year-old woman, providing relief from Bilateral Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia, a condition characterised by severe throat pain and painful swallowing. It was also associated with a nagging neck pain also. The innovative procedure removed grossly elongated styloid processes in the neck (Eagle’s Syndrome) that were impinging on the glossopharyngeal nerve bilaterally, the root cause of her chronic pain not relieved on medications.

Despite undergoing numerous consultations and trying various medications at multiple hospitals, the patient’s condition persisted, leaving her in constant, debilitating pain. This patient from Chennai endured the pain for nearly a year without any cure. However, after the surgery, the patient experienced remarkable improvement. Within hours of the procedure, she reported a dramatic reduction in pain. Her swallowing difficulties were fully resolved. Within 48 hours, the patient was discharged with no further complications.

Bilateral Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia with Eagle’s Syndrome is rare, and in most cases, the typical approach to treatment would involve conventional surgeries, such as removal of the tonsils to access the parapharyngeal space and reach the styloid processes and the nerves. However, TORS allowed the removal of the styloid bones without the need for external incisions and spared the surrounding tissues and organs, including the palatine tonsils.

The groundbreaking surgery was performed by Prof. Dr. Sanjeev Mohanty, Senior Consultant and Head of the Department of ENT, Head & Neck Surgery at MGM Healthcare. In his comments, he said, “The patient had been suffering from excruciating throat and neck pain for nearly a year, despite multiple consultations and various treatments. After a thorough evaluation and advanced imaging techniques, we were able to accurately diagnose the patient’s condition as Bilateral Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia, caused by elongated styloid bones compressing the glossopharyngeal nerve. The challenge was accessing these deep, narrow areas to remove the elongated bones without damaging surrounding structures. This is where Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS) proved to be a game-changer. The robot’s articulatory arms allowed us to perform highly precise movements in the parapharyngeal space, which would have been extremely difficult with conventional methods. By performing the surgery through the mouth, we could safely remove the styloid bones, sparing vital organs like the tonsils and important blood vessels, thereby minimising the risk of complications. TORS provided an optimal solution, offering minimal invasion and ensuring a quicker, smoother recovery for the patient.”

He added that TORS has usually been used primarily for tumor removal, especially in the throat and mouth area. However, the ability to perform TORS for a rare condition like Bilateral Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia, caused by Eagle’s Syndrome, marks a significant milestone for MGM Healthcare. This innovative approach, done for the first time in the country, (just a few cases have been reported in literature worldwide with similar techniques) allows the surgeon to precisely access the affected areas and provide relief to a patient who had not found a solution despite multiple attempts at treatment elsewhere. “Our hospital is deeply committed to utilising cutting-edge technologies to improve patient outcomes, and this breakthrough demonstrates our expertise in leveraging robotic-assisted surgery for complex cases. With this success, we continue to uphold our promise to push the boundaries of medical innovation, offering hope and relief to patients without viable treatment options”.

Eye Q and NTPC Enable 100 Successful Cataract Surgeries in Surat Villages

New Delhi, 16^th May 2025: Eye-Q, a leading chain of super-speciality eye hospitals, in collaboration with NTPC (National Thermal Power Corporation), India’s largest integrated power producer, successfully concluded a high-impact CSR initiative at the NTPC Surat plant by organizing two free eye screening and cataract surgery camps. As part of NTPC’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitment to the communities around its operations, the initiative helped screen over 250 individuals from surrounding villages, of whom 100 patients underwent successful cataract removal surgeries by Eye-Q’s expert medical team.

A closing ceremony was held on 14 May 2025 to commemorate the successful completion of the initiative. During the event, Eye-Q distributed customized spectacles to all operated patients. The prescriptions were derived after detailed post-operative vision testing conducted on 8th and 9th May. The entire initiative—from screening to surgery to post-operative care—was provided completely free of cost, reaffirming both organizations’ commitment to healthcare equity and social impact.

Dr. Ajay Sharma, Founder and CMD of Eye-Q Eye Hospitals, said, “India faces a backlog of over 22 million blind eyes, representing nearly 12 million individuals, and shockingly, 80.1% of this blindness is caused by cataract—an entirely treatable condition. Our collaboration with NTPC has allowed us to address this burden at the grassroots level by restoring vision to 100 patients in Surat. At Eye-Q, we remain deeply committed to bridging this healthcare gap through accessible, quality eye care for all, especially for underserved communities.”

Dr. Samir Vankhawala, Regional Medical Director of Eye-Q Eye Hospitals, said, “At Eye-Q, we believe that access to eye care should not be a privilege but a basic right. We have a longstanding legacy of delivering quality eye care through free camps and outreach initiatives across underserved regions. This collaboration with NTPC has enabled us to expand that mission further, ensuring our combined efforts bring lasting impact to the communities we serve.”

S J David, Head of Plant at NTPC Hazira, added, “As part of our unwavering commitment to sustainable and inclusive development, this CSR collaboration with Eye-Q reflects NTPC’s dedication to improving the lives of communities in and around our project locations. Healthcare access is a priority area in our CSR strategy, and we are proud that this initiative has delivered tangible benefits to the people of Surat.”

Eye-Q has been a leader in corporate social responsibility (CSR) and outreach programs. The organization has conducted numerous free eye camps, door-to-door check-ups, and health awareness campaigns, impacting communities in need. Since its establishment in 2007, Eye-Q has conducted over 1 crore eye examinations and performed 6 lakh surgeries. Moving forward, the hospital chain aims to perform 80,000 surgeries and conduct 600,000 eye screenings by the end of 2025.

Dengue on the Rise in India: A Wake-Up Call

Dengue fever has become a serious and growing health threat in India, especially between July and mid-November. Recent years have seen a sharp rise in cases across the country not just in traditional hotspots, but in newer regions as well, such as Nagaland and parts of Himachal Pradesh. Experts point to climate change as a major reason behind this spread.

According to the National Centre for Vector-Borne Disease Control (NCVBDC) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), dengue cases in India have increased from 28,066 in 2010 to over 2.89 lakh in 2023. In 2025 (as of March), India has already reported more than 16,000 cases, indicating a worrying early trend for the year. This massive and continuing rise highlights the urgency of strengthening our public health systems and response.

Globally, dengue is spreading to new regions too. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that due to global warming, as many as 4.7 billion people could be at risk of dengue by the end of the century.

Dengue is caused by a virus spread by Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid climates. As the climate changes, more parts of India are becoming suitable for their breeding. Higher temperatures speed up mosquito breeding cycles and help the dengue virus multiply faster inside their bodies. Rainfall, flooding, and even water storage during droughts create pools of stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, according to Dr Vikram Jeet Singh, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Aakash Healthcare.

A study published in The Lancet states that climate-sensitive diseases like dengue are likely to rise significantly, especially in South Asia, if countries do not act urgently. northern Indian states like Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh have started seeing regular outbreaks a sign that the traditional “dengue belt” is expanding.

Some media reports recently suggested that a dengue vaccine, Qdenga, has been approved in several countries and is expected to be launched in India next year. Reports claimed that Qdenga can protect people from all four strains of the dengue virus. 

Experts say India must take urgent steps to manage dengue both in the short and long term. In the short term, to combat the rising threat of dengue, a multi-pronged strategy is essential. One of the most effective short-term measures is the use of mosquito nets, window screens, and covers for water storage containers. When used consistently, these have been shown to significantly reduce mosquito bites and dengue transmission, said Dr Sunil Rana, Associate Director and Head of unit III internal Medicine, Asian Hospital. Additionally, biocontrol methods, like introducing mosquito-eating fish into ponds and tanks, have been successfully used in states like Andhra Pradesh to reduce mosquito populations without relying on chemical insecticides, said Dr Sunil Rana.

Stronger partnerships between government and private sector players can amplify the impact of control measures. Businesses can support community clean-up campaigns, fund public awareness drives, or help distribute low-cost mosquito control products, said Dr Vineet Rao, Consultant – General Medicine, Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune. In remote and underserved areas with limited health infrastructure, mobile health clinics and ASHA workers can play a critical role in delivering services such as dengue testing and educating communities on prevention methods, Dr Vineet. At the broader policy level, disaster response plans, especially in flood-prone states like Assam and Bihar, should integrate mosquito control as a key priority.

According to Dr. Aakaar Kapoor, CEO and Lead Medical Advisor at City XRay and Scan Clinic, India should adopt Integrated Vector Management (IVM) a coordinated approach that involves multiple sectors such as health, agriculture, urban planning, and the environment. While India’s National Vector-Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) includes elements of IVM, more coordination and on-ground training are needed to make it fully effective.

However, according to Dr. Praveen Gupta, Principal Director & Chief of Neurology, Fortis Hospital, emphasizes that dengue’s nationwide spread, amplified by climate change, brings not just fever but serious neurological risks like encephalitis, seizures, and Guillain-Barré syndrome. As cases surge year-round, early diagnosis and awareness are crucial. Beyond vector control and vaccines, safeguarding brain health demands urgent, coordinated, and informed public health action.

Public health efforts must be supported by individuals, local communities, and government agencies alike. As India adapts to a changing climate, fighting dengue must become a top priority, not just for health, but for national development, Dr Vikram.

Timely Thrombectomy Saves 32-Year-Old from Stroke at Wockhardt Hospitals

Mumbai – A 32-year-old woman, Mrs. Anuradha Shinde (name changed), experienced a life-threatening ischemic stroke during a routine health check-up, highlighting the underappreciated risks of dehydration and prolonged fasting. Mrs. Shinde, in good general health, had been fasting overnight for approximately 12 hours in preparation for a routine annual health check-up. During this period, she also abstained from drinking water. After her early morning blood tests at a diagnostic center, she entered the washroom to provide a urine sample but did not emerge for over 30 minutes. Concerned staff eventually found her inside the washroom with signs of acute neurological distress, specifically, weakness on the left side of her body.

Dr. Pavan Pai

She was rushed for immediate medical attention. An MRI of the brain revealed that she had suffered an ischemic stroke, affecting the right hemisphere of her brain. She was promptly administered a thrombolytic (clot-busting) injection in an effort to restore blood flow. However, her condition deteriorated rapidly. A follow-up MR angiography showed a complete occlusion of the right internal carotid artery (ICA), the major vessel supplying blood to the brain.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, she was transferred to Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road where a team led by senior neuro-interventionist Dr. Pavan Pai performed a mechanical thrombectomy—an advanced minimally invasive procedure used to remove the clot directly from the artery.

“This case was a stark reminder that even young individuals without prior health conditions can suffer serious strokes under specific circumstances like dehydration,” said Dr. Pavan Pai, Consultant Interventional Neurologist & Stroke Specialist in Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road “When a person is dehydrated, blood becomes more viscous, or thicker, and this can severely impact circulation. In people who may already have some level of narrowing in their blood vessels, the risk of clot formation and blockage rises dramatically. Mrs. Shinde’s quick transfer and the rapid intervention with mechanical thrombectomy were critical to saving her life and preventing permanent disability.”

Following the procedure, Mrs. Shinde was placed on a comprehensive neurorehabilitation program, which included physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Over the course of three months, she made a remarkable recovery. Today, she has regained full function and is back to work, living independently and without deficits.

This case underscores the importance of awareness around the potential dangers of extended fasting and dehydration, even in the context of routine medical procedures. While fasting is commonly practiced for blood tests, individuals—especially women and those with known or suspected vascular issues—should be advised to stay well-hydrated unless specifically instructed by a doctor. When you’re dehydrated, your blood becomes thicker, making it harder to circulate through the body. If you already have a narrowed or partially blocked blood vessel, dehydration adds stress to your system and significantly raises your risk of stroke.

Dr. Pavan Pai further emphasized the importance of timely diagnosis and intervention: “Stroke is a medical emergency where every second counts. Rapid imaging and treatment can mean the difference between full recovery and lifelong disability. Public awareness and preparedness are essential.”

Key Takeaways:
• Always stay adequately hydrated before routine fasting blood tests unless otherwise instructed.
• Be alert to warning signs of stroke: sudden weakness, difficulty speaking, facial droop, or loss of coordination.
• Seek immediate medical help at the first sign of neurological symptoms—timely action saves lives.
World Stroke Thrombectomy Day was established in 2021 to support Mission Thrombectomy’s campaign to bring awareness to the benefits of stroke treatment intervention, and the need for access to such treatments, specifically in low- and middle-income countries. This day is recognized each year on May 15th, but the work to secure global access happens every day.

Stress-Free Brain: Yoga Techniques that Calm the Nervous System and Enhance Mental Agility

By-Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar – Author, Columnist, Founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa

Yoga has rightfully been recognised as a practice that aligns the mind, body and breath. Yoga views the Human System in a holistic manner where everything is interlinked. Especially in recent times when lifestyle disorders have become common, stress is the underlying cause for most health issues. Mental Health has now been declared as a worldwide pandemic. Ancient sciences like Yoga are therefore regaining popularity in the current culture, rightfully so.

• Kapalabhati Shuddhikriya: Start in sukhasana(seated posture), stabilise the breath, keep the spine straight. Start forcefully exhaling while pulling the stomach and abdomen inwards, rest of the body should be relaxed. Continue for 50-60 strokes, active exhales, passive inhales. Take a break to normalise the breath, repeat 2-3 rounds.
Benefits: Cleanses the channels and stimulates energy towards the skull. An uplifting practice that activates the nervous system, enhancing mental agility.

• Balasana: Sit in Vajrasana, slowly place the palms in front of the knees, on the floor. Gently walk the palms forward till they fully extend, without lifting the pelvis off the heels, place the forehead in between the palms, keep the eyes closed and relax.
Benefits: Helps in releasing stress from the spine which is directly connected to the central nervous system, fights backache, reduces stress and relaxes the mind.

• Anulom-Vilom: Sit in a comfortable posture with the spine straight. Place the left hand on the left knee, with the right hand block the right nostril and inhale from the left, then block the left nostril and exhale from the right. Now inhale from the right nostril while the left is still blocked, then block the right and exhale from the left. This completes one cycle. Practice 5-10 cycles, maintaining the breath as slow as possible.
Benefits: Balances both sides of the brain, sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system, it immediately calms the mind, reduces anxiety and regulates blood flow in the whole body.

• Aarambha Dhyaan: A powerful Himalayan Meditation, great for beginners. Sit in a comfortable posture, imagine 2 circles in front of you, on top a white hole and on the bottom a black hole, forming a triangular connection between the body and the two circles. Mindfully start visualising all inhales coming from the white hole signifying the universal source of knowledge and positive energy, and consciously exhaling all stress/unwanted heavy energies, negativity into the black hole. Practice for 5-11 minutes daily. Repeated and regular practice will give powerful results.

 Benefits: Removes negativity, re-wires the brain to become more positive thinking, releases stress from the nervous system, aligns the brain to respond to stressful situations with deeper awareness without getting disturbed, increases mental clarity. It is a technique that can be practiced multiple times and used for manifesting positive affirmations for a healthy and happy mind.

Can Moles Increase Your Risk of Developing Skin Cancer?

Authored by Pinaki Mahato, Consultant – Medical Oncology, HCG Cancer Centre, Vadodara

Time & age are two common factors that affect the transformation of our skin. Every individual has certain unique skin features, moles or freckles being the most common ones. Usually, moles appear as birthmarks and do not pose any cause for concern.

Moles, most commonly known as nevi, are small, benign, regular-looking skin growths caused by a cluster of melanocytes or pigment-producing cells. Though unusual, one of the most severe forms of skin cancer, known as melanoma (a type of skin cancer developed from melanin-producing cells), can look like a mole.

If diagnosed in time, skin cancer can be treated successfully. However, one must possess a basic understanding of the kinds of skin cancer, the risks, and preventive measures to maintain overall well-being.

Some typical characteristics include:

• Larger size
• Irregular or blurry borders
• Varied colours (brown, black, red, pink, or tan)
• Asymmetry
• Raised or flat texture

In case you notice any of the above irregularities, consult a dermatologist promptly.

The main kinds of skin cancer include:

1. Actinic Keratosis: A precancerous condition caused by sun exposure. It can develop into squamous cell carcinoma if untreated.
2. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common and least aggressive form, often found on sun-exposed areas like the face and neck.
3. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Can spread if untreated. Often appears as rough, scaly patches or open sores.
4. Melanoma: Can appear anywhere in the body, even unexposed areas like under the nail beds, toes, or on the scalp.

The Standard ABCDE Rule – How to Self-Examine?

• A – Asymmetry: Unidentical sides
• B – Border: Irregular edges
• C – Colour: Uneven colour or multiple shades
• D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm
• E – Evolving: In terms of size, shape, colour, etc

Routine self-exams are essential to determine any unusual growths as well as get a better understanding of the risks involved.

Treatment Options

Though the treatment options often vary basis the size, type and stage of skin cancer:

• Surgically removing the moles is a common practice for most skin cancers

• Mohs surgery offers precision removal for sensitive areas like the face
• Topical or OTC medications might help in treating actinic keratosis or superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma
• In cases where surgery isn’t viable, Radiation therapy might be suggested
• For advanced cases of melanoma, Immunotherapy or targeted therapy is often utilised
• For cases that do not respond to any of the above treatment, Chemotherapy might be monitored as a last resort

A Few Helpful Tips

For people with many moles, or a history of skin cancer, one must:

• Perform monthly self-checks
• Schedule annual full-body skin exams with a dermatologist
• Consider total-body mole mapping or mole photography
• Avoid tanning beds
• Daily usage of sun protection
• Due awareness about the symptoms and risks

Looking Ahead

Skin growths are often not something to worry about; however, in case of any abnormalities might warrant expert intervention. Due awareness, and regular check-ups may help individuals understand their body better. In case of any inconsistencies, consulting a dermatologist, and asking the right questions, might help protect your skin from the risk of cancer.