Extraordinary Efforts at Jehangir Hospital: Saving Lives and Providing Comprehensive Care

The Challenging Beginnings

Roshan Kumar, a hardworking cook from Pune, and his wife Sudha were devastated upon discovering that one of their soon-to-be-born twins faced severe medical complications. The couple had previously experienced the tragic loss of their baby boy two years ago, compelling them to approach this situation with utmost caution. Determined to give their unborn children the best chance at survival, they sought medical advice from experts in Mumbai and Kolkata. However, driven by the memories of their past loss, Roshan ultimately decided to bring Sudha back to Pune and rely on the exceptional care provided by Jehangir Hospital.

A Team Committed to Survival

At Jehangir Hospital, a team of multi-speciality medical professionals led by Dr. Sagar Lad, Consultant Senior Pediatrician and Neonatal Intensivist, embarked on a challenging mission to ensure the infant’s survival. Sudha, who was 26 weeks pregnant with a twin pregnancy, faced complex complications. One baby suffered from growth restriction due to interconnected blood vessels, while the other had a rare condition called Fetal Acadia, resulting in the underdevelopment of the upper body.

A Precarious Delivery

Sudha arrived at the hospital in an advanced stage of labour, necessitating immediate action. The medical team swiftly delivered the first baby, who unfortunately did not survive. However, the second twin presented an even more significant challenge. The underdeveloped upper body, including the chest, upper limbs, neck, and head, created significant obstacles during delivery. Dr. Jyotsna Angom, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Jehangir Hospital, skillfully guided the team through this critical moment, ensuring the safe arrival of the second baby.

Battling Complications

The surviving twin, weighing a mere 760 grams, faced many complications. The underdeveloped lungs posed significant breathing difficulties, requiring ventilator support and surfactant medication to enhance respiratory function. Continuous ventilator assistance became indispensable for the baby’s survival, transitioning to CPAP support after a month and necessitating approximately two months of oxygen therapy.

Overcoming Challenges: The Road to Recovery

Throughout the intensive care journey, the medical team at Jehangir Hospital confronted various obstacles with unwavering determination. One notable challenge was the emergence of Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA), a common heart defect observed in premature infants. The team employed conservative measures, including appropriate medication, to reduce fluid buildup and alleviate pressure on the heart, ultimately aiding in the closure of the duct.

Feeding intolerance due to gastroesophageal reflux presented another hurdle. Diligent monitoring and prompt intervention enabled the medical team to manage this complication effectively. Additionally, due to the extended period of oxygen support, extreme prematurity, and low birth weight, the baby developed retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), which could lead to visual impairment. However, thanks to the expertise of Dr. Vrushali Athawale, a consultant ophthalmologist at Jehangir Hospital, timely screening and treatment involving retinal laser procedures and intravitreal injections were administered, ensuring the best possible outcome for the baby’s eyesight.

Compassionate Care and Support

While navigating this intricate and challenging medical journey, Roshan Kumar faced financial constraints due to his meagre monthly salary. Recognising the dire circumstances, Jehangir Hospital extended financial assistance, providing immense relief during the three-month hospital stay. This compassionate approach exemplifies the hospital’s commitment to comprehensive care, ensuring that financial limitations do not hinder the well-being of patients.

Triumph and Discharge

After an arduous battle against countless odds, the day finally arrived when the baby was deemed healthy and stable enough to be discharged from Jehangir Hospital. Weighing 1.9 kg, the little fighter had defied expectations and emerged victorious, thanks to the relentless efforts of the medical team. Dr. Lad emphasises the significance of comprehensive and compassionate care for managing complex medical conditions in premature infants, a sentiment echoed by Vinod Sawantwadkar, the CEO of Jehangir Hospital.

Conclusion

The extraordinary tale of Roshan Kumar, Sudha, and their twin babies showcases the exceptional dedication and expertise of Jehangir Hospital in Pune. By combining medical excellence with compassion, the hospital’s team of professionals successfully overcame numerous obstacles, ensuring the survival and well-being of the surviving twin.