28, Mar 2024
Trilife Hospital launches advanced Neurorehabilitation and Sports Medicine Center; 60,000 sq ft Outpatient Care Unit

Trilife Hospital launches

Bengaluru, 28th March 2024: Bengaluru-based Trilife Hospital expanded its operations with the launch of an advanced 40-bed Neurorehabilitation and Sports Medicine Center dedicated to pioneering advancements in neurological and rehabilitation and Sports Medicine. Trilife Hospital also launched a new, state-of-the-art outpatient care unit that aims to revolutionize the outpatient experience for people visiting the hospital. Spread over a 60,000 sq ft area, this facility is equipped with the latest technology and instrumentation and is among the largest of its kind in the city. Consultancies for various specialties are spread over four floors for easy patient access. The hospital aims at doubling its consultant fraternity in the next fourteen months and will introduce robotics for rehabilitation in a few months’ time.

Speaking at the inauguration Dr. Shafiq A.M CEO and Co-founder, Trilife Hospital said, “This state-of-the-art outpatient care unit will serve as a gateway to comprehensive healthcare, both from the perspective of routine health checkups to specialized consultations. We have equipped each of our experts with medical devices that employ cutting edge technology to enhance our patient’s well-being, resilience, and vitality, while enhancing quality of life.”

“The incidence of strokes in younger patients has increased dramatically in the recent past and is one of the reasons we chose to introduce rehab as a full-fledged medical specialty. We have dedicated a complete floor to Neurorehabilitation and Sports Medicine that will provide services for in-patients, out-patients and those who require longer rehab time. The unit will be staffed by a team of experienced physiotherapists who will work with expert physiatrists and specialists in orthopedics, neurology, and pain management. Apart from providing medical aid to patients requiring sports medicine, the unit will also cater to patients ranging from neonate to geriatric, encompassing women’s health, both antenatal and postnatal. Home care physiotherapists will also be available. Each patient will have a dedicated program depending on his or her medical requirement”

The neurorehabilitation unit will have a 24-hour doctor and ICU backup, trained nurses and medical staff, and will function as a Hyper Dependency Unit (step-down ICU) with high-end equipment including robotics for upper and lower extremities, and Hyperbaric Oxygen (HBO2) therapy to monitor patient vitals. They will focus on care for cardio-vascular treatment, the incidence of strokes in youngsters, rehab for bedridden patients, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy.

The state-of-the-art outpatient department and rehab unit was inaugurated in the presence of eminent leaders including Shri Krishnabyre Gowda, Hon. Minister of Revenue, Government of Karnataka, Shri G.T. Devegowda, Member of Karnataka Legislative Assembly, Dr, Shafiq AM, CEO and Co-Founder, Trilife Hospital, Dr. Prashanth R, Director and Co-Founder, Trilife Hospital, Shri. Ramachandra Gowda, Director, and Co-Founder, Trilife Hospital among others.

25, Mar 2024
Bahar Moghaddam, MD Joins NY Health

Bahar Moghaddam, MD Joins NY Health

New York, NY, March 25, 2024 –New York Health (NY Health) is pleased to announce that board-certified rheumatologist Bahar Moghaddam, MD, has joined its team.

“We’re excited to have Dr. Bahar Moghaddam join our Rheumatology team,” said Dr. Chris Ng, Chief Medical Officer and Executive Director of NY Health. “She brings a wealth of experience in hands-on patient care and will be a valuable asset as we grow the rheumatology practice.”

Dr. Moghaddam is dedicated to the comprehensive care of patients with various rheumatologic disorders. Her expertise extends to the specialized management of conditions such as spondyloarthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Psoriatic arthritis, arthritis associated with inflammatory bowel disease, and reproductive rheumatology. Notably, she provides compassionate care to women with rheumatic diseases, offering support in preconception counseling and throughout pregnancy.

Dr. Moghaddam enjoys the longitudinal patient relationships that a rheumatology career allows and the plentiful opportunities for counseling and patient education.

“I view clear communication and education as central elements of patient care,” Dr. Moghaddam said. “During visits, I spend considerable time educating my patients about their disease process, as understanding the disease is essential to understanding the treatment plan and promoting adherence to therapy. I strongly believe each patient’s values, beliefs, and lifestyle should be accounted for in selecting a treatment plan.”

Dr. Moghaddam obtained her BASc in Chemical Engineering and MSc in stem cell biology, as well as her medical degree, from the University of Toronto. She accomplished her internal medicine residency at the University of British Columbia. Subsequently, she returned to the University of Toronto for her fellowship in rheumatology, where she distinguished herself as Chief Resident. Throughout her training, Dr. Moghaddam conducted research focusing on lupus-related mortality, neuropsychiatric lupus, and spondyloarthritis. Dr. Moghaddam speaks fluent English and Farsi.

25, Mar 2024
Spectrum.Life Appoints Dr Paula Franklin as Independent Director

Lomdon, United Kingdom, March 25, 2024 –Spectrum.Life, a global leader in digital health solutions specialising in mental health, primary care and wellbeing, proudly announces the appointment of Dr Paula Franklin as a Director of the Board.

Paula has a long career in health internationally, having trained in the UK and worked as a hospital doctor and a GP before studying Public Health at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. Following this, Paula worked for the Children’s Defense Fund charity in Washington DC on US health policy and legislation. On returning to the UK in 1996, Paula joined Bupa where she held several senior medical roles, before eventually joining the senior leadership team as Chief Medical Officer Bupa Group. Paula is also on the Board of the Youth Sport Trust in the UK. Dr Franklin will also serve as the Chair of Spectrum.Life’s Clinical Advisory Board.

Paula has a wealth of experience in healthcare funding and delivery, digital transformation and innovation in health. Beyond health she is a leader in promoting inclusion and diversity, Paula also served as the Executive sponsor for Bupa’s global inclusion and diversity agenda. As a Trustee of the UK Bupa Foundation, she spearheaded initiatives supporting deprived communities and advocated for women and BAME colleagues in leadership. Dr Franklin’s impactful contributions earned her recognition, including being named one of the 100 most influential people of African, African Caribbean, and African American heritage in the UK by the Powerlist for three consecutive years, which honours men and women across a range of industries including business, science, technology and the arts.

Dr Paula Franklin expressed her enthusiasm, stating: “I feel privileged to become a Director of Spectrum.Life. I find their approach to digital health and wellbeing incredibly inspiring, and I look forward to contributing to the next chapter of the company’s international growth and cementing its position as a leader and innovator in digital health solutions. Furthermore, I’m honoured to be chairing Spectrum.Life’s Clinical Advisory Board, helping the company to continue to lead the way in best class clinical standards.”

Stuart McGoldrick, founder and Executive Chair of Spectrum.Life, expressed delight at Paula’s appointment, citing her strong track record in international clinical innovation governance and risk leadership: “Paula is an excellent addition to our Board, we are very excited about her joining us. I am delighted she has agreed to chair our Clinical Advisory Board, further solidifying our commitment to advancing high quality whole of health solutions.”

Dr Paula Franklin is a distinguished medical professional, in addition to her medical degree, she has qualifications including a Master’s in Public Health from Johns Hopkins University, an MBA from London Business School, an MA in Bioethics and Medical Law, and a diploma in counseling.

11, Mar 2024
Vijayawada’s FertiCARE IVF Centre Breaks Infertility Taboo with Joyous Baby Shower Celebration

Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, March 11, 2024: FertiCARE IVF Centre in Vijayawada marked a significant milestone in its journey towards eliminating the stigma associated with infertility by hosting a heartwarming baby shower celebration. This event, held in honor of mothers-to-be who have successfully conceived through In vitro fertilization (IVF), coincides with the center’s first anniversary. 

Infertility remains a sensitive and often stigmatized issue in many societies, causing emotional distress and societal pressure for those experiencing it. In India, approximately 10-15% of married couples are affected by infertility, according to the Indian Society of Assisted Reproduction (ISAR). FertiCARE IVF Centre aims to challenge these societal norms by fostering a supportive environment where individuals and couples can seek fertility treatments without fear or judgment. 

Dr. Prathyusha Javadi, Clinical Head at FertiCARE IVF Centre, expressed her gratitude to the patients, staff, and community for their unwavering support throughout the centre‘s inaugural year. We have been able to bring the joy of parenthood to many lives in this one year through our expertise, commitment, and compassionate approach. Our mission at FertiCARE IVF Centre goes beyond just helping individuals conceive; it’s about empowering them to embrace their journey towards parenthood with confidence and dignity. 

The baby shower celebration serves as a testament to the triumphs of those who have overcome infertility with the help of advanced reproductive technologies offered at FertiCARE IVF Centre. The event not only celebrated the joyous journey towards parenthood but also highlighted the centre‘s commitment to providing compassionate care and personalized treatment options to its patients. 

FertiCARE IVF Centre offers a comprehensive range of fertility treatments, including Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), In vitro fertilization (IVF), Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), In vitro maturation (IVM), Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A), Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders (PGT-M), and Endometrial Receptivity Analysis (ERA). These advanced treatments are tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient, ensuring the highest chances of success. 

As part of the First Anniversary celebrations, FertiCARE IVF Centre is delighted to extend a special offer to its patrons. Until March 31st, 2024, the centre is offering FREE Consultation, Scan, and IUI, along with an exclusive 50% discount on IVF procedures. This initiative reaffirms the center’s commitment to making fertility treatments more accessible and affordable for all. 

“We are thrilled to mark our First Anniversary by extending this special offer to our valued patients. It is our fervent hope that this gesture will empower more individuals and couples to take the first step towards fulfilling their dreams of parenthood,” said Dr. Prathyusha. 

FertiCARE IVF Centre invites the community to join them in celebrating life, love, and the journey towards parenthood. Dr Ujwala Jasti & Dr Sravani Reddy, Co-founders of FertiCARE Centre have participated in the celebrations.

1, Mar 2024
The Rise in Patients Requiring Revision Hip Replacement Surgery

Dr Aashish ArbatBy Dr Aashish Arbat Performs Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement Using 3-Inch Incision Surgery Technique

Pune, India – Ganpat Bhandwalkar, a 34-year-old male patient who has been battling chronic hip joint pain for the past nine months with no relief from Ayurvedic treatments, recently underwent a groundbreaking complicated Bilateral Uncemented Ceramic dual mobility hip replacement using a new surgical approach. Dr. Aashish Arbat, Joint Replacement surgeon at ONP Hospital in Pune, performed THR surgery where the damaged ball of the hip was removed and replaced with a prosthetic using the innovative 3-inch cut technique. This technique minimizes blood loss, prevents tissue damage, ensures equal leg length post-surgery and the patient can quickly return to normal activities.

Hip replacement surgery, also called total hip arthroplasty, is a procedure to replace damaged parts of the hip joint with artificial components. It’s usually done for people with severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other conditions that cause a lot of hip joint damage. The goal is to reduce pain, improve movement, and make life better for patients. The surgery involves removing damaged bone and cartilage and putting in artificial parts made of strong materials like metal or ceramic. It’s important to carefully assess patients before the surgery to make sure it’s right for them and to get the best results.

According to Dr. Aashish Arbat, a Joint Replacement surgeon at ONP and Jahangir Hospital, in Pune Maharashtra, “The rise in revision hip replacement surgeries after the COVID-19 pandemic has created an urgent demand for new approaches to ensure improved and sustained recovery. As the elderly population grows, there has been a natural increase in the number of hip replacement surgeries. Additionally, a significant number of younger patients aged between 35 and 45 are experiencing persistent hip pain due to AVN or genetic factors, as well as wear and tear, injuries, and lifestyle choices. Also, older implants have a limited lifespan, and the likelihood of needing revision surgery increases over time. The traditional THR surgery method is leading to more frequent revision surgeries to address wear and tear. Patients nowadays are more active and anticipate a better quality of life following their initial hip replacement.”

Dr. Aashish Arbat, explained the new procedure “In contrast to the traditional method, which involves a large incision through the muscles and hip joint from the back or side, the Anteriolateral approach also known as the Modified Watson Jones approach accesses the hip joint from the front. In traditional surgery, cutting through muscle layers causes extended healing time and significant postoperative pain. However, with the Modified Watson Jones approach by Dr Arbat, no muscles are cut, resulting in minimal postoperative pain and faster recovery. The patient is operated on in a supine position with a small incision on the front of the hip instead of the back. By moving muscles aside along their natural tissue planes without cutting them, the Modified Watson-Jones approach minimizes pain, reduces blood loss, and lowers the risk of dislocation by leaving most structures around the hip joint intact. Additionally, this approach shortens hospital stays and allows for earlier discharge home, ultimately reducing hospital costs.”

After the surgery, rehabilitation and physical therapy are important for helping patients recover and get the most benefit in the long run. Complications can include infection, implant dislocation, or the need for more surgery because the artificial parts wear out. So, it’s crucial to carefully consider each patient’s situation and perform the surgery with great care to get good results.

1, Mar 2024
Over 80 Unique Michelin Star Dishes & Culinary Delights to Pamper Flyers at SpiceJet

spiceJet...Flying is no longer about moving from one destination to another. Rather, it’s a journey of the senses and soul, which promises to tantalize the taste buds and create lasting memories. Imagine savouring delectable culinary delights that not only elevate the mood but also empower girls with education and add a dash of fun with specially curated kids’ meals alongside a healthy array of unique dishes drawn from Michelin-starred chefs and noted cuisine kings. SpiceJet is pulling all stops to pamper its flyers by offering a carefully crafted menu of over 80 sumptuous hot meals sandwiches, munchies, ready-to-eat items, Jain meals and beverages.

Masterfully curated by Michelin-starred chef, author and filmmaker Vikas Khanna, this delectable addition to our onboard menu consists of four delightful dishes – Chicken Aloo Bukhara Biryani, Vegetable Biryani, Chicken Khurchan Roll and Paneer Bhurji Roll. A part of the proceeds from the sale of these new additions goes towards an NGO that promotes girls’ education in India.

India’s rich history of flavours is there for the taking via Karim’s straight from the Mughal kitchen to your tray, with scrumptious Chicken Reshmi Seekh Kebabs, Chicken Malai Tikkas, Chicken Tikkas and Chicken Shami Kebabs.

For the young flyers, the airline has curated a unique kid-friendly meal that comes in an aeroplane-shaped bag, featuring a veg burger, ragi bites, a chocolate bar, and juice. SpiceJet has also tailored Navratri culinary offerings specifically for the festive Navratra period. There’s also a variety of selections for the health-conscious as well, such as low-calorie salads, gluten-free meals, and diabetic-friendly options.

For those with a taste for the finer things in life, there’s a special Chef’s Choice section on the menu. After pre-booking their favourite item from these exotic Indian and world cuisine fares, passengers can savour them on their next flight. Other delectable dishes include Vegetable Pasta in Napolitana Sauce, Chinese specialities like Chicken Schezwan on a bed of fried rice, and the tantalizing Tawa Fish Masala. For a healthy and satisfying option, there’s Vegetable Millet Daliya, while the Chicken in Red Thai Curry, offers exotic flavours. There’s also a choice of savouring a lean and succulent Grilled Chicken Breast with Mushroom Sauce.

From diabetics to gluten-free meals and low-calorie salads for the health-conscious an exotic array of culinary delights is waiting to be explored and experienced.

28, Feb 2024
Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson’s Hyderabad Mission Strengthens Healthcare Collaboration between Western Australia and India

Sanderson's Hyderabad, February 28, 2024: Minister for Health and Mental Health, Amber-Jade Sanderson embarked on a mission to India to strengthen WA-India links across the healthcare, medical, and life sciences sectors. Leading a health skilling and business delegation, the Minister has concluded her highly productive mission to Hyderabad, spanning from February 25 to February 27, 2024. The delegation actively participated in numerous engagements, featuring representatives from industries including health and life sciences, medical technology, digital health, and medical device companies, biotech, and pharmaceutical companies.

Attracting healthcare workers is a key priority for the Western Australian government, with forecasts predicting WA will need an additional 5,000 FTE doctors and nurses by 2033. During the mission, Minister Sanderson successfully promoted employment opportunities in Western Australia’s healthcare sector, with a specific focus on professions including nurses, doctors, and aged care workers. She held crucial meetings with esteemed dignitaries, including Hon. Damodar Raja Rajanarasimha, Minister of Health, Medical & Family Welfare, Science and Technology, to foster discussions on collaboration and investment in healthcare.

The Health Skilling Symposium, held in collaboration with Rainbow Hospital and Telangana Overseas Manpower Company (TOMCOM), facilitated meaningful discussions and initiatives aimed at enhancing skills and capacity-building efforts in the healthcare domain. Minister Sanderson’s participation at BioAsia 2024 provided a platform to showcase Western Australia’s capabilities in health and life sciences, fostering connections and exploring potential collaborations.

During the mission, Minister Sanderson held important meetings with distinguished figures including Hon. Sri Damodar Raja Narasimha, Minister for Health, Medical & Family Welfare, Science and Technology, Telangana and bilateral meetings with Hon. Anumula Revanth Reddy, Chief Minister, Telangana, and Hon. Duddilla Sridhar Babu, Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications; Industries & Commerce and Legislative Affairs, Government of Telangana, strengthened ties and identified areas for cooperation in healthcare.

Minister Sanderson highlighted Western Australia’s vibrant healthcare ecosystem, showcasing advancements in healthcare, research, and development, and fostering interest in potential investments. She reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting skilled migrant workers through initiatives like the Skilled Migrant Job Connect Program. The Western Australian Premier’s University Scholarship was showcased to support students pursuing healthcare-related courses, further bolstering the skilled workforce in the region.

Minister Sanderson was also delighted to announce the signing of a collaboration agreement between ECU and Charkos Global, aimed at facilitating the education and migration of nurses. The partnership will facilitate supporting Indian nurses through transition courses at ECU including the award-winning International Adaptation Program (winner of AAUT INTERNATIONAL Teaching Excellence Award in 2022). ECU will also partner with Charkos Global to accredit specialist post-graduate courses for nurses in India working in pediatrics, mental health, and oncology nursing. We expect the first Indian nurses to come to ECU in August this year.

A significant highlight of the mission was Minister Sanderson’s keynote address at the 21st Bio Asia 2024 Summit, a premier life-sciences and healthcare forum in Asia where innovation, data, and artificial intelligence converge to redefine possibilities. This two-day conference catalyzed furthering the ties between Western Australia and India. At this event, Western Australia partnered with Bio Asia as a “Global Partner” which allowed us to showcase Western Australia’s comple­mentarity with the state of Telangana in the sectors of Healthcare and Life Sciences.

Reflecting on the engagements in Hyderabad, Minister Sanderson remarked, “Through our mission to Hyderabad, we’ve forged invaluable connections and laid the groundwork for transformative collaborations between Western Australia and India. Our shared commitment to advancing medical innovation and fostering skilled workforce exchange lays a solid foundation for addressing healthcare challenges and driving economic prosperity. I’m immensely proud of the outcomes achieved and look forward to the continued growth and prosperity that these partnerships will bring.”

22, Feb 2024
Physiotherapy Heals Wounds

By Dr S.Senthilkumar,
Department of hand and General Surgical Physiotherapy,
Saveetha College of physiotherapy,
Thandalam

Pressure sores and wound ulcers are debilitating complication of diabetic patients as well as other  patients who met with road traffic accidents. Delay in healing of wounds concerns every patient and affects their normal activities of daily life. Various drug regimens were used to promote wound healing. Iodine, saline and anti bacterial ointments facilitate wound healing. Physiotherapy also plays an important role in promoting wound healing. Low intensity laser therapy, Ultrasound therapy and ionotophoresis indeed help in wound healing.

 Laser therapy

 Low intensity laser therapy is recently used for the treatment of wounds. Laser accelerates the process of healing of wounds. Laser facilitates wound healing by chemotactic activity, vascular changes and chemical mediators. Laser therapy enhances tissue proliferation and thus facilitates wound healing caused due to burns, pressure sores, diabetic ulcers and pressure sores. Chronic and acute ulcers treated effectively by laser therapy using direct contact or grid method.

 Ultrasound therapy

 Ultrasound therapy enhances wound healing in all stages of repair. It increases permeability of lysozomes membrane to clear debris from wound area. It also induces calcium ions into the wound causing mobility of fibroblasts to form scars while myofibroblasts contracts wound. Ultrasound therapy also increases the tensile force enhancing strength and elasticity of the fibres. Ultrasound effectively heals pressure sores

 Ionotophoresis:

 Wound healing also promoted by using the principles of ionotophoresis. Zinc oxide is used in ulcers to enhance the healing of wound.

22, Feb 2024
Exploring the Role of Pelvic Wands in Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation

By Dr. Suriya. N

MPT ( obg), Tutor, Saveetha College of Physiotherapy,

saveetha institute of medical and technical sciences, Tamil Nadu, India.

Introduction:

 Pelvic floor dysfunction is a prevalent condition affecting individuals of all ages and genders worldwide. The pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in supporting the pelvic organs, maintaining continence, and facilitating sexual function. Dysfunction in these muscles can lead to various issues such as urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction. Pelvic floor rehabilitation aims to restore strength, flexibility, and coordination to these muscles. One tool that has gained recognition in this field is the pelvic wand. In this article, we delve into the significance of pelvic wands in pelvic floor rehabilitation and how they are used in therapy.

Understanding Pelvic Wands:

 A pelvic wand, also known as a pelvic floor wand or trigger point wand, is a specialized tool designed to assist in pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation. It typically consists of a slender, wand-like device made from medical-grade materials such as silicone or plastic. At each end of the wand, there may be various features such as rounded knobs, ridges, or curves, which serve different purposes during therapy.

Role of Pelvic Wands in Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation:

Trigger Point Release:

Pelvic wands are often used to perform trigger point release therapy. Trigger points are hypersensitive areas within the muscles that can cause pain and dysfunction. By applying gentle pressure to these trigger points using the wand, therapists can help alleviate muscle tension and discomfort, promoting relaxation and improved function of the pelvic floor muscles.

Myofascial Release:

Myofascial release is a technique used to release tension and tightness in the fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscles. Pelvic wands can be effective tools for performing myofascial release in the pelvic region. Therapists use the wand to apply controlled pressure to specific areas of the pelvic floor, helping to stretch and release tight fascia, thereby improving mobility and reducing pain.

Pelvic Floor Muscle Strengthening:

 In addition to releasing tension, pelvic wands can  also be utilized to facilitate pelvic floor muscle strengthening exercises. By incorporating the wand into exercises such as pelvic floor contractions (Kegels), therapists can provide tactile feedback and enhance muscle awareness, helping individuals better engage and strengthen their pelvic floor muscles.

Biofeedback:

 Some pelvic wands are equipped with sensors or markings that provide biofeedback to the user. This real-time feedback allows individuals to monitor their pelvic floor muscle activity and ensure they are performing exercises correctly. By using a biofeedback enabled pelvic wand, individuals can optimize their pelvic floor rehabilitation efforts and track their progress over time.

Self-Treatment:

One of the key advantages of pelvic wands is that they enable individuals to perform self-treatment in the comfort of their own homes. With proper instruction from a pelvic floor therapist, individuals can learn how to use the wand safely and effectively to manage their symptoms and improve pelvic floor function between therapy sessions.

Conclusion:

 Pelvic wands are valuable tools in pelvic floor rehabilitation, offering a range of benefits including trigger point release, myofascial release, muscle strengthening, biofeedback, and self-treatment. When used under the guidance of a qualified pelvic floor therapist, pelvic wands can help individuals alleviate symptoms, improve pelvic floor function, and enhance overall quality of life. As awareness of pelvic floor dysfunction continues to grow, pelvic wands are likely to remain an essential component of comprehensive pelvic floor rehabilitation programs.

22, Feb 2024
Diabetes Surgery Successfully Performed on A 41-year-old Woman with Uncontrolled Diabetes

Mumbai: A team headed by Dr Ramen Goel, Consultant Diabetes and metabolic surgeon, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road achieved a breakthrough by successfully conducting a diabetes surgery on a 41-year-old woman who has been battling uncontrolled diabetes for over a decade. The patient also suffered from other health issues like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and thyroid problems, which greatly affected her overall well-being. This surgical intervention has been gaining traction for the last 1 year and significantly reduces the chances of developing complications associated with diabetes, such as diabetic retinopathy, brain stroke, kidney disease, and cardiac and nerve problems, all of which contribute to higher mortality rates in our country. Remarkably, this surgery improves blood sugar levels, and aids quick recovery and the patient has now completely stopped taking diabetes medication and has seamlessly resumed her daily activities.

dibetics

Patient Mrs Kavita Mahesh, a 41-year-old resident of Mira Road, weighing 84.5 kgs had uncontrolled diabetes for 10 years besides high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and thyroid. Additionally, her father has kidney problems. Despite taking the medication regularly, her blood sugar levels remain uncontrolled. In November, the patient approached Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, and sought assistance due to her inability to control her blood sugar levels and the presence of high cholesterol.

Dr. Ramen Goel, Consultant Diabetes and Metabolic Surgeon, Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road said, “The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is rapidly growing, affecting a staggering number of people in the country. Despite extensive awareness campaigns and lifestyle modifications, over 77% of people with diabetes, have failed to achieve proper control over their condition (indicated by HbA1c levels above 7). As a result, patients with uncontrolled diabetes face an increased risk of developing macrovascular complications such as cardiovascular diseases (including heart attacks) and brain strokes, as well as microvascular complications like peripheral neuropathy and nephropathy. The impact of this disease extends beyond a reduced lifespan, with an estimated millions of lives in India being lost due to direct causes related to diabetes. Hence, diabetes surgery can be a boon for patients with high HBA1c levels that help to regularise average blood sugar levels within 2-3 months.”

“Diabetes surgery is a laparoscopic gastrointestinal procedure that reroutes the stomach and the intestines. In India, gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy are commonly performed metabolic surgeries. While these surgeries were originally intended for weight loss, they can now be offered to patients with a BMI of 27.5 who have uncontrolled diabetes. The surgeries work by changing gut hormones, and gut bacteria, and limiting food intake, resulting in improved insulin sensitivity, increased insulin secretion, and better glycemic control. Its purpose was to redirect food to the latter part of the intestine, which secretes a hormone called GLP-1. This hormone reduces insulin resistance and stimulates increased insulin production from the pancreas. The surgery was done on February 6th, and the patient was discharged on February, 9. The surgical procedure typically takes around one hour, and patients are allowed to drink water and walk within 6-8 hours after surgery. She is completely off diabetes medicines 1 week after discharge and her HAB1C levels have already dropped by 10% The recovery process after metabolic surgery is relatively quick and the blood sugar levels start improving within the first two days after surgery. In most cases, injectable insulin can be discontinued within 2-7 days post-surgery,” said Dr Goel.

Individuals who undergo diabetes surgery experience glycemic resolution, and their blood sugar levels return to normal, and most no longer require medication. “Most patients continue to be free from diabetes medication even a decade after the surgery. This sustained maintenance of normal blood sugar levels has a remarkable impact on reducing complications associated with diabetes. After diabetes surgery, there is a reduction in diabetic retinopathy (eye problems), diabetic kidney disease, and diabetic nerve problems. There is also a decrease in diabetes-related heart attacks and deaths. The achievement of glycemic control and the avoidance of complications are crucial factors in managing diabetes effectively,” underscored Dr Ramen Goel.

Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road has taken a pioneering step by introducing metabolic surgery in North Mumbai. This innovative procedure goes beyond traditional weight loss surgeries, as it is specifically designed to treat diseases such as diabetes and hypertension and transform lives for the better. This commitment to improving patients’ overall health reflects the Hospital’s dedication to providing holistic healthcare solutions that go beyond mere symptomatic treatment; highlighted Dr. Pankaj Dhamija, Centre Head, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road.

“Dr Goel transformed my life by performing the surgery which not only improved my blood sugar levels but also hopefully saved me from dangerous complications. Before the surgery, I was constantly battling high blood sugar levels despite multiple medications and strict dietary control. It felt like an endless cycle of frustration and despair. Dr. Goel’s expertise in diabetes surgery offered a glimmer of hope for a better future. It not only drastically reduced my blood sugar levels but also provided me with newfound freedom and peace of mind. My quality of life has significantly improved and I now enjoy activities that were once lost to chronic fatigue due to uncontrolled diabetes. He explained how reducing excess weight through metabolic surgery can lead to improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of complications. I am forever indebted to Dr Goel and his team,” concluded the patient Mrs Kavita Mahesh