Category Archives: Health

Medica Superspecialty Hospital leads Eastern India in trauma care with successful inaugural ATLS course

2nd May 2024 Kolkata: Medica Superspecialty Hospital, a leading healthcare institution in Eastern India, is proud to announce the successful hosting of its inaugural Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) course from 28th April to 30th April’24. This significant initiative aligns with Medica’s steadfast commitment to bringing the highest standards of healthcare to Eastern India. Distinguished external faculty members for the inaugural course at Medica included Prof. Dr. MC Mishra, ATLS Chair and Program Director of ATLS India, along with Prof. Dr. Vinod Jain, Head Surgical Sciences, Neera Hospital, Lucknow, National Course Director ATLS India; Prof. Dr. Amita Ray, HOD Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, MMC Medical College, Bihar and ATLS Senior Instructor, ATLS Educator India; and Dr (Brig.) Sanil Mohan, Head of Department, Department of Anesthesiology, Command Hospital (Eastern Command), Kolkata. Dr. Anirban Chatterjee, Senior Consultant, Hand & Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon & Faculty – DNB Orthopedics, Medica Institute of Orthopaedic Sciences, In-house ATLS Instructor, Member of ATLS Team, Medica Superspecialty Hospital; Dr. Kasturi H. Bandyopadhyay, Senior Consultant Anaesthesiologist, DNB Faculty & ATLS Instructor, Medica Superspecialty Hospital and Dr. Akshay Gadre, Consultant Anaesthesiologist, DNB Faculty, ATLS Instructor and ATLS Site In Charge, Medica Superspecialty Hospital were an integral part of the ATLS course at Medica. The course was impeccably coordinated by Mr. Smith Banerjee, ATLS coordinator, Medica, Kolkata and Mr. Joseph Antony, Nursing Team Leader and Supervisor Emergency Medicine, ATLS Coordinator Medica, Kolkata under supervision from ATLS India head office.

Conducted under the esteemed banner of the American College of Surgeons, the ATLS course equips healthcare professionals with essential skills for managing polytrauma victims, particularly during the critical “Golden Hour” following injury. Developed out of the personal tragedy experienced by Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. James Styner in 1980, the ATLS program has gained global recognition as a pivotal method for training frontline providers in trauma patient care.

The initiative to introduce the ATLS course in India was spearheaded by the Indian Society for Trauma & Acute Care (ISTAC) with support from the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and the National Disaster Management Authority of the Government of India. Since its inception at the Jai Prakash Narayan Apex Trauma Centre of AIIMS, New Delhi in 2009, numerous centers across India have embraced this training, significantly enhancing the preparedness of medical personnel to handle trauma cases effectively.

Dr. Anirban Chatterjee expressed, “The inaugural ATLS course at Medica Superspecialty Hospital marks a significant milestone in our journey. After a few years of effort, we’re proud to be the first hospital in Eastern India to host this course, joining 33 other centres across the country. This program holds profound significance as it equips physicians with the necessary knowledge and skills to deliver critical care to trauma patients. Through the ATLS course, doctors acquire vital insights and abilities to promptly identify and address life-threatening injuries amidst the intense pressures inherent in trauma care environments.”

While talking about the importance of the course, Dr. Kasturi H Bandyopadhyay, shared, “Our objective was to establish a dedicated trauma team for proficiently handling polytrauma cases within our hospital. Initiating this course marked our initial stride toward realizing this objective.”

Dr Akshay Gadre stated that, “Although limited to 16 delegates per course, as per ATLS guidelines and recommended instructor-provider ratio, we have received inquiries from Oman, Bangladesh, and Nepal, which we have enlisted for our subsequent sessions. Eligibility for participation mandates possession of an MBBS degree. Following the success of this endeavour, we have plans to extend our efforts to conduct the ATCN course, aimed at training nursing staff in proficient trauma care.”

Mr. R. Udayan Lahiry, Managing Director, Medica Group of Hospitals, told, “Trauma is a leading cause of death and disability all over the world. Trauma management can be improved by implementing a trauma care system that includes injury prevention, education, pre-hospital care, transportation, hospital care, and rehabilitation. If properly implemented, trauma system can reduce mortality by at least 10-15%. Training clinicians to manage trauma patients is an essential part of developing proper trauma systems. The primary end point of any clinical educational activity is its impact on improving health care delivery resulting in saving lives. At Medica, we have always reiterated on continuous education not only for our clinicians and nurses but also for all the caregivers of the region in the larger interest of the community we serve. We intend to initiate the ATCN course soon in our endeavour to address the trauma management holistically.”

Mr. Ayanabh Debgupta, Jt. Managing Director, Medica Group of Hospitals, shared, “Trauma globally results in six million deaths annually. Approximately 40 million people suffer permanent injuries each year, while up to 100 million experience temporary injuries. The UN and WHO/WHA highlight trauma as the primary cause of death among individuals aged five to 29 worldwide. Recent analysis conducted in Indian hospitals revealed that 58% of trauma-related deaths could have been prevented. Against this backdrop, the significance of the ATLS course is unparalleled, and it is imperative for all hospitals to establish trauma care teams to enhance patient outcomes.”

About Medica Group of Hospitals: Medica Group of Hospitals, one of the major chains of hospitals in Eastern India today, has built and managed numerous healthcare facilities across the Eastern region over the past few years. The group has footprints in West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, and Assam.

Virinchi Hospitals Hosts Neonatal Resuscitation Workshop to Combat Oxygen-Related Neonatal Mortality

Hyderabad,2nd May 2024: Virinchi Hospitals, a pioneer in healthcare services in Hyderabad, hosted a specialized workshop on Neonatal Resuscitation for the nursing staff, today at Virinchi Hospital, Banjara Hills. This vital program was organized by senior consultant Pediatrician Dr. Vannala Raju, with esteemed faculty members including Dr. Purna Guggilum, KIMS Cuddles; Dr. Vaddi Vamsi Krishna, Rainbow Children’s Hospital; and Dr. Raju himself.

The workshop focused on critical resuscitation techniques necessary for caring for newborns immediately after birth. More than 50 nursing professionals from various hospitals in & around the city participated in this engaging and informative session, acquiring skills that are crucial in reducing brain damage due to lack of oxygen immediately after birth (hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy – HIE) —a common yet preventable threat to newborns.

India’s current neonatal mortality rate stands at approximately 20 deaths per 1,000 live births and conditions such as hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) because of poor cry/inability of the baby to breathe immediately after birth contribute significantly to neonatal deaths. It is estimated that 1.5 babies per 1,000 live births in India are affected by HIE, making it a crucial area for intervention.

Dr. Vannala Raju, who spearheaded the workshop, emphasized the importance of equipping nursing staff with the knowledge and techniques to administer immediate care. “Through this workshop, we aim to disseminate knowledge and skills to reduce neonatal mortality and enhance the quality of care provided right at the moment of birth,” said Dr. Raju.

The training covered a range of topics crucial to newborn care, including the effective management of breathing and cardiovascular stabilization. The workshop’s hands-on approach ensured that the nursing staff could practice and master these lifesaving techniques in a controlled, supportive environment.

The success of this program highlights Virinchi Hospitals’ commitment to advancing neonatal care and improving health outcomes for the youngest patients. The knowledge disseminated here is expected to significantly decrease the incidence of hypoxic damage and, by extension, neonatal mortality rates. Virinchi Hospitals continues to stand at the forefront of medical excellence and educational empowerment, aiming to set new standards in healthcare provision and staff training.

Glocal Healthcare Systems Transforming Healthcare Dynamics in India

Innovative solutions are transforming healthcare delivery, especially in underserved regions where traditional models have struggled to provide accessible, affordable, and quality care. Leveraging technology and process optimization, some ventures are pioneering a new approach to healthcare. By integrating telemedicine, digital dispensaries, and acute care facilities, these initiatives aim to reach millions annually, even in remote areas. Their strategies involve reducing costs through efficient hospital designs and focusing on common diseases to improve clinical excellence. These efforts underscore a growing movement towards democratizing healthcare, ensuring that quality services are not just a privilege for the urban elite but a right for all.

Glocal Healthcare Systems, an innovative social venture founded by Dr. Sabahat Azim, is revolutionizing healthcare delivery in India’s underserved regions. With a focus on affordable, accessible, and accountable care, Glocal operates over 600 digital dispensaries and 11 acute care hospitals, serving more than 2 million patients annually. Originating from a personal tragedy experienced by Dr. Azim, Glocal was established with the ambition to overcome the challenges of traditional healthcare systems that fail to provide quality care, especially in rural areas.

Glocal’s approach to healthcare is significantly bolstered by technology and process optimization. Starting with a 30-bed hospital in West Bengal, the organization quickly expanded, perfecting a 100-bed hospital model ideal for Tier II/III cities, thanks to support from venture funding and impact investments. This growth reflects a strategic emphasis on treating a common subset of diseases with high clinical excellence, while also reducing construction and operational costs through innovative hospital design and management practices.

Innovation lies at the heart of Glocal’s mission. Dr. Azim advocates for a shift towards a process-based, standardized healthcare delivery system, akin to mass production principles. To this end, Glocal developed LitmusDX, a clinical decision support system powered by machine learning, which, along with LitmusMX and HelloLyf apps, facilitates efficient, remote patient care through digital dispensaries. These technologies ensure quality care is accessible even in the most remote areas, reducing medical errors and improving accountability.

Oteria Skincare Launches Its Digital Brand Film To Drive Awareness On Circadian Rhythm For Better Skin

India, April 30, 2024: With its recent entry into the D2C skincare market, Rivpra Formulation’s skin care brand Oteria, today announced the launch of its new brand film, ‘Skincare Symphony with Circadian Rhythm Melody’. In a refreshing melodic spin, the film aims to advocate for holistic skincare practices based on the human body’s Circadian Rhythm, just like the symphonies of a song. Oteria, through its wide product portfolio, encourages customers to opt for skincare which doesn’t feel like a chore but instead allows them to nourish their skin through the day.

The film, conceptualised and produced by M&C Saatchi has been launched across Oteria’s digital platforms, playing to the tunes of one’s Circadian Rhythm and highlighting each product set to a different rhythm for a different time of the day for 24×7 skincare needs. Oteria’s #PlayingToSkin harnesses the power of Circadian Rhythm which plays a vital role in the overall skin health. The Circadian Rhythm is responsible for functions like cell turnover, collagen creation and UV protection, alongside combating other external stressors. Oteria, with its thoughtfully designed products, enables customers to have fun with skincare without the jargon it surrounds.

On the launch of the brand film, Vibhor Rastogi, Director, Rivpra Formulations & Oteria shared, “The film is set against the backdrop of a human body’s circadian rhythm and with Oteria, our goal is to heighten the awareness about skincare that suits the needs of one’s skin, 24×7. The film creatively plays to the rhythm of our day, highlighting the key products and ingredients that customers should be using to replenish their skin through the 4 essential zones of the day – such as the All Rounder Skin Cream and White Tea Face Wash for when you RISE, Radiant Kiwi Mist to revitalise your noon SHINE, Plumpy Skin Serum to unwind and CHILL and lastly Time Travel Under Eye Serum that helps to restore right before you YAWN.”

Furthering Oteria’s commitment, Aditi Jain, Marketing Head, Oteria, added, “As a brand, we take pride in providing gender-neutral holistic skincare solutions with a comprehensive approach to skin, hair and body care and the film is a testament to that commitment.”

Behind the visual storytelling, Gopal S Krishnan, Managing Director, M&C Saatchi February said, “The idea behind this film is to break away from the usual clutter of overloaded information, filled with jargons and terminologies, before and after feel, et al by the skincare industry. Oteria brand film brings the best of science and nature and makes skincare easy to understand and accessible to all genders. The film’s catchy melody effortlessly takes you through a person’s whole day, by simply following the body’s natural circadian rhythm by using the 4 simple routines of Oteria at the 4 times of the day. Grooving, dancing and singing the protagonist does it all! And gets the most effective results by simply using the right product at the right time. It is only an added pro that the harmony is fun and groovy!”

Following its debut in the D2C Skincare space, the brand launched 19 products and plans to launch 30 more products by 2026. With these product lines, the company is promoting skin awareness and education about one’s Circadian Rhythm. All Oteria products are available on e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and Oteria’s direct-to-consumer (D2C) platform, www.oteria.com.

New Treatment Option for Heart Failure Patients with Mitral Regurgitation

Guwahati : A recent study has revealed that one out of every five patients with Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction (HFrEF) suffers from moderate to severe or severe Mitral Regurgitation (MR). If left untreated, MR can initiate a cascade of events that potentially leads to death, with a mortality rate of 46.1% even with guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) alone. The severity of MR predicts a progressively worse prognosis for patients with Heart Failure (HF).

According to Dr. Balbir Singh, Group Chairman – Cardiac Sciences, Pan Max & Chief of Interventional Cardiology and Electrophysiology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, For many individuals with Heart Failure and MR, maximally tolerated medical therapy may not provide sufficient relief. Additionally, surgery is often not a viable option for patients with secondary MR. In such cases, the MitraClip procedure emerges as a potential solution to address MR. MitraClip is a minimally invasive procedure performed on a beating heart without the need for cardiopulmonary bypass. It allows real-time assessment of MR reduction and offers the ability to reposition the clip for optimal reduction. On average, patients can be discharged from the hospital within 2-3 days.

The effectiveness of MitraClip is supported by two landmark clinical trials, namely EVEREST II and COAPT. Based on the results of these trials, MitraClip has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) to treat both inoperable and high-risk surgery patients with Degenerative MR, as well as all patients with moderate to severe or severe functional MR, along with maximally tolerated GDMT. Following the MitraClip procedure, the majority of patients, approximately 90%, are discharged directly to their homes. Patients have reported sustained improvements in their quality of life.

MitraClip has an extensive clinical history, with over 16 years of proven safety and clinical experience. It has been studied in more than 30,000 patients in clinical trials and has been used to treat over 150,000 patients worldwide. The procedure has shown a 96.6% freedom from device-related complications at 12 months for secondary MR cases.

It is crucial for healthcare professionals to be vigilant and check patients for symptoms such as marked limitations on physical activity, fatigue, shortness of breath, weight gain, and edema. While medication can help manage the symptoms of a mitral valve condition, it does not address the underlying problem. Surgery for repair or replacement can be an effective long-term solution, but it is often not recommended for patients with secondary MR.

Key benefits observed in the COAPT randomized controlled trial for patients with functional MR include a 33% relative risk reduction in mortality over 36 months, a 51% relative risk reduction in HF hospitalizations over 36 months, and a 2.5 times higher likelihood of experiencing a significant improvement in Quality of Life.

Heart failure patients with MR now have a new treatment option with the MitraClip procedure, offering the potential for a longer and better life. By addressing MR, this minimally invasive procedure aims to improve patient outcomes and enhance their overall well-being.

9th Edition of the India Health and Wellness Awards 2024 Celebrate Excellence in Healthcare, Innovations in Health and Patient Centric Approach Recognised

Mumbai, 29th April: a glittering celebration of excellence in healthcare was witnessed with illustrious gathering of industry stalwarts, policymakers, and healthcare luminaries, at the 9th edition of IHW Awards, an event conceived to honour outstanding contributions towards the advancement of health and wellness in India.
Dr. Neelam Diwakar Gorhe, Hon’ble Deputy Chairperson, Maharashtra Legislative Council while taking part in the ceremony congratulated the IHW Council for working towards the realisation of Sustainable Development Goals in the country. She also reminisced about the government’s efforts during the pandemic and concluded that comprehensive efforts by all can result in ensuring that no one is left behind as far as good health and healthcare are concerned.

The prestigious awards ceremony, now in its 9th edition, showcased a diverse range of initiatives, innovations, and best practices that have made a significant impact on public health and wellbeing across the nation. From pioneering healthcare institutions to grassroots initiatives, the IHW Awards recognized excellence at every level of the healthcare ecosystem.
“We are delighted to recognize and celebrate the exemplary efforts of individuals and organizations who are driving positive change in healthcare,” said Mr. Kamal Narayan, CEO of IHW Council, he further added that the awards are a step towards amplifying India’s stride towards better health of all and serve as an inspiration to motivate the citizens to come forward for the cause of good health of both the people and the planet.
The prominent names that were awarded included names like Cipla Limited, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Limited, Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories, Lupin Limited, Ziqitza Healthcare, Public Health Foundation of India, Aditya Birla Health Insurance, Utkal Hospital, Apollo Health & Lifestyle Limited
The awards ceremony also featured insightful keynote addresses, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, providing attendees with valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration.
Reflecting on the success of the event Mr Sudarshan Jain, Secretary General, Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance remarked, “The IHW Awards is an apt platform for celebrating innovation, fostering collaboration, and inspiring positive change in the healthcare landscape. We congratulate all the winners and finalists for their dedication and commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of communities across India.”
At the event, FIBE was the Healthcare Finance Partner, while Zenzo, FlexifyME, and Wolters Kluwer stepped in as Associate Partners. Peakmind was the Mental Health & Wellbeing Partner, with DISHA participating as the Session Partner. Meanwhile, Teamwork Communications Group contributed as the Communication Partner for the event.

The Yoga Institute Announces Free Access to Samattvam Yoga OPD in Honor of Dr. Jayadeva Yogendra’s Birth Anniversary

The Yoga Institute, the world’s oldest organized Yoga centre, is pleased to announce that the “Samattvam” Yoga OPD which was previously available at a nominal fee will now be offered to the public for free in honour of the auspicious occasion of Dr. Jayadeva Yogendra’s birth anniversary on 27th April 2024. The Samattvam Yoga OPD initiative was launched in 1984, has conducted more than 2500 sessions and treated more than 75000 patients. By removing the nominal fee charged earlier, The Yoga Institute hopes to make the transformative benefits of yoga more accessible to everyone; continuing Dr. Jayadeva Yogendra’s mission of making the profound benefits of Yoga accessible to each and every member of society.

The Yoga OPD “Samattvam” offers a varieties of holistic health and wellness services such as personalised medical consultations, individualised yoga consultations with experienced instructors, kriya, pranayama and asana sessions focusing on holistic well-being, curated sattvik diet-plans, in-depth lifestyle practices for stress management, measurement of vital body parameters and overall health enhancement. With this initiative, The Yoga Institute aims to promote a healthier and happier community by empowering society with the knowledge and tools to incorporate yoga into their daily lives. In celebration of Dr. Jayadeva Yogendra’s birthday, The Yoga Institute invites everyone to take advantage of this special opportunity to experience the transformative power of yoga through the “Samattvam” Yoga OPD, now offered free of charge.

Dr. Hansaji Yogendra believes that making ‘Samattvam’ accessible to all is a fitting tribute to the humanitarian ethos and memory of Dr. Jayadeva Yogendra, who dedicated his life to selfless service by advancing the practice and understanding of yoga. This version of Samattvam will make the profound benefits of Yoga accessible to those who are most in need.

Dr. Hansaji Yogendra, Director of The Yoga Institute, Mumbai, is a globally acclaimed spiritual guru, wellness mentor and thought leader. The Yoga Institute, Mumbai, under her leadership has been honoured with the Prime Minister’s Award in 2018. Dr. Hansaji has a vibrant, robust and commanding social-media presence which touches the lives of millions of viewers worldwide. Her words, ideas and life-long body of work in Yoga, wellness and mindfulness has the source of powerful change in countless lives. She is a mentor and role model to millions and has conducted more than 100,000 powerful sessions on yoga, wellness, mental health and has authored more than 100 books, many of which are leading bestsellers. Dr. Hansaji is on the board of multiple national and international committees which work on devising yoga syllabi and shaping yoga policy worldwide. Her life is exemplary in its devotion to service and commitment to social well-being. An epitome of grace and wisdom, she is a global symbol of peace, balanced living, and yoga.

The Yoga Institute was established in 1918 by the venerable yoga guru Shri Yogendraji, also known as the Father of Modern Yoga Renaissance. The Yoga Institute celebrated its centenary milestone on 25 December 2018. The 100 year anniversary celebration of the Institute was attended by Shri Ramnath Kovind – Ex–President of India, M. Venkaiah Naidu – Ex- Vice President of India. The Yoga Institute is a non-profit organization and the oldest organized centre for Yoga in the world. The Institute has a diverse legacy of pioneering work in the field of yoga such as: the “householder yoga” movement, several social initiatives such as Annam Brahma (free meals for the underprivileged), free medical health camps, blood donation drive, wellness and mindfulness programmes, yoga for armed forces and police, holistic health programs, yoga programmes for the municipal and western railway staff, wellness programs and much more.

MGM Healthcare Doctors Save a Polish Pediatrician from A Rare Bile Duct Liver Cancer for The First Time.

Chennai, April 25, 2024: MGM Healthcare is proud to announce the successful recovery of a patient diagnosed with a rare bile duct cancer of the liver called intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. The emerging advancements in transplant oncology paved the way for customized treatment by transplant surgeons

Dr.Thiagarajan Srinivasan, Director and Dr. Karthik Mathivanan, Associate Director of the MGM Institute of Liver Disease and Transplant.

A 31-year-old pediatrician from Poland, diagnosed with advanced-stage bile duct cancer, faced significant challenges for treatment all over the world. In July 2023, CT and MRI revealed a large lesion of 8 x 7 cm in the right lobe of her liver and three small lesions of 3 x 2 cm each in the left lobe.

A multidisciplinary team of experts, comprising liver surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and transplant specialists, collaborated closely to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to the patient’s unique treatment needs for rare bile duct cancer of the liver using the advancements in transplant oncology. The team leveraged cutting-edge techniques and technologies, including precision medicine, advanced imaging modalities, and immunotherapy, along with transarterial radioembolization (TARE) therapy and chemotherapy, to successfully down-stage locally advanced bile duct cancer in a 6-month period, making transplantation a feasible option for the patient.

Dr. Thiagarajan Srinivasan, Director of the MGM Institute of Liver Disease and Transplant, elaborated that, “the tumour was not amenable for conventional surgical removal, which would have rendered the remaining liver non-viable. Hence, transplant was the only option that would remove the tumour in toto with the bile duct encompassing the liver”. He further added, “liver cancer ranks as the tenth most prevalent cancer in India, presenting significant complexities in its treatment and management, especially intrahepatic bile duct cancer, due to its aggressive nature, needs to be brought within transplant criteria with multimodal therapy, and then liver transplant is successful with reduced recurrence in the post-transplant period.”

Dr. Karthik Mathivanan Associate, Director of the MGM Institute of Liver Disease and Transplant, expressed optimism about the impact of this achievement: “The ability to down-stage and transplant locally advanced bile duct cancer represents a significant advancement in the field of oncology. We continue to explore new frontiers in transplant oncology to find a cure for cancer and beyond. This treatment success offers renewed hope to patients who may have previously been deemed ineligible for transplantation due to the extent of their disease.”

Dr. Thiagarajan Srinivasan, further added, “The patient successfully underwent living donor liver transplant probably the first of such procedure in the country and this was enabled by her husband who donated right lobe of his liver. Post-surgery, patients’ recovery was swift, with no evidence of cancer recurrence, marking a historic milestone in liver cancer treatment.”

Dr. Karthik Mathivanan added, “This treatment modality has the potential to extend the lives of patients previously considered ineligible for liver transplantation. This well-tolerated approach offers newfound hope to liver cancer patients worldwide, promising improved outcomes and a better quality of life.” He also presented a research paper on this case at the ILTS Consensus Conference for Hepatocellular Cancer and Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma in Valencia, Spain, in 2024. Research team anticipates that this pioneering treatment approach will catalyze further advancements in liver cancer therapy, fostering collaboration, innovation, and ultimately benefiting more patients globally.

The surgery was performed by Dr. Thiagarajan Srinivasan, Director, MGM Institute of Liver Disease and Transplant; Dr. Karthik Mathivanan, Associate Director, MGM Institute of Liver Disease and Transplant; Dr. Srikanth Thummalla, Consultant; Dr. Soundara Rajan L, Consultant; Dr. Dinesh Babu, Anaesthesists; and Dr. Nivash Chandrasekar, Anaesthesists.

Sightsavers India reinstates its Annual Fellowship Program for aspiring Ophthalmologists

Mumbai, 25th April, 2024: Sightsavers India, a development organisation dedicated to eliminating avoidable blindness and promoting equality of opportunity for individuals with disabilities, announces the commencement of applications for its annual Fellowship Programme for the year 2024. The application window remains open until 30th June 2024, with the programme scheduled to commence in August 2024.

The Sightsavers India Fellowship Programme provides a distinctive and promising career for ophthalmologists. It is crafted to guide selected fellows through a rewarding 24-month journey. This structured programme enhances skills and provides mentorship across various domains, including clinical and surgical ophthalmology, as well as managerial and holistic life skills development.

Mr. RN Mohanty, the Chief Executive Officer of Sightsavers India, expressed that the program has garnered increasing interest among young and aspiring ophthalmologists. He emphasised its role as a transformative career pathway tailored to mould recent post-graduates into proficient surgeons with a holistic skill set. “Spanning a duration of 24 months, our fellows undergo rigorous training and receive guidance from industry leaders. Within this timeframe, they refine their clinical and surgical aptitudes, gain expertise in managing community-based healthcare facilities, participate in impactful surveys, and cultivate their individual aspirations while collaborating closely with senior leadership. These immersive experiences foster a comprehensive understanding of the eye-health landscape ”

Upon acceptance, fellows undergo an intensive four-month training focusing on Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS). Subsequently, they are placed within peripheral locations for 20 months across one of the 8 states: Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. The Fellows also participate in surveys such as Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB).

These placements facilitate continuous skills enhancement and invaluable personal interactions with respected eye care and development leaders.

At each programme stage, emphasis is placed on optimising learning experiences, enabling fellows to evolve into well-rounded, seasoned professionals. Furthermore, they receive an attractive stipend throughout the duration of the fellowship, recognising their dedication and contribution.

Do not ignore any backache, Prompt and early intervention can treat the condition

Back pain is a prevalent issue that affects millions worldwide, often stemming from various causes such as muscle strain, poor posture, injuries, or degenerative conditions. Among these, slipped discs remain a significant concern due to their debilitating impact on daily life. Understanding the signs, causes, and diagnostic measures for slipped discs is crucial for effective management and prevention of long-term complications.

Slipped discs, also known as herniated or bulging discs, manifest through various symptoms including localized or radiating pain, muscle weakness, and numbness. These symptoms often arise due to factors like incorrect lifting techniques, poor posture, sedentary lifestyles, or genetic predispositions. Ignoring early warning signs can exacerbate the condition, leading to further damage to spinal discs over time.

The Role of Prolonged Sitting in Slipped Disc Development

Prolonged sitting, especially with poor posture, significantly increases the risk of developing a slipped disc, particularly in the lumbar spine. This sedentary behavior not only stresses spinal discs but also weakens supporting muscles, compounding the risk of disc degeneration and herniation. Incorporating regular breaks, maintaining proper posture, and utilizing ergonomic furniture are essential to mitigate this risk.

Diagnostic Measures for Slipped Discs

Early diagnosis of slipped discs is paramount for timely intervention and management. Healthcare professionals employ various diagnostic tests including physical examinations, imaging tests like MRI and CT scans, and electrodiagnostic tests to assess symptoms, identify nerve compression, and determine the extent of disc herniation.

Treatment Strategies for Slipped Discs

The treatment approach for slipped discs depends on factors such as symptom severity, location of the herniation, and patient-specific considerations. Conservative treatments including pain management, physical therapy, activity modification, and epidural steroid injections are often effective in alleviating symptoms. However, surgical intervention such as microdiscectomy, laminectomy, or spinal fusion may be necessary in cases of severe pain or neurological deficits.

CONSERVATIVE TREATMENT:
A. PAIN MANAGEMENT: Over-the-counter pain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen may help alleviate pain associated with a slipped disc. In some cases, prescription pain medications may be necessary for more severe pain

B. PHYSICAL THERAPY: Physical therapy exercises and techniques can help improve spinal flexibility, strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, and alleviate symptoms associated with a slipped disc. Physical therapists may also use modalities such as heat, ice, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation

C. ACTIVITY MODIFICATION: Avoiding activities that worsen symptoms, such as heavy lifting, bending, or prolonged sitting, and adopting ergonomic practices can help reduce strain on the spine and promote healing of the disc herniation

D. EPIDURAL STEROID INJECTIONS: Injections of corticosteroids into the space around the spinal nerves (epidural space) can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with a slipped disc, particularly if conservative treatments alone are not effective

SURGICAL INTERVENTION:

A. MICRODISCECTOMY: In cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief or if there are signs of nerve compression causing severe pain or neurological deficits (such as weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder or bowel control), surgical intervention may be necessary. Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed to remove the portion of the herniated disc that is compressing the spinal nerves, thereby relieving pressure and alleviating symptom

B. LAMINECTOMY: In some cases, particularly if there is significant spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal) or if the disc herniation is associated with other spinal abnormalities, a laminectomy may be performed to remove a portion of the vertebral bone (lamina) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves

C. SPINAL FUSION: In cases where there is instability of the spine or if multiple discs are affected, spinal fusion surgery may be recommended to stabilize the spine by fusing two or more vertebrae together using bone grafts, metal implants, or synthetic materials

Prompt and early diagnosis of back pain, especially when indicative of a slipped disc, is crucial for preventing long-term complications and improving patient outcomes. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and diagnostic measures associated with slipped discs, healthcare providers can offer timely interventions tailored to individual patient needs, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for those affected by this common yet debilitating condition.