Health

MDRF & US Scientists Discover New Diabetes Subtype: A Global Breakthrough in MODY Research…

deccanwebtv May 9, 2025

● Newly identified genetic mechanism could revolutionize diagnosis and
treatment of Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY).

Chennai, 8 th May, 2025: In a major breakthrough, researchers from the Madras Diabetes Research
Foundation (MDRF) in Chennai, India, and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis,
Missouri, USA have jointly announced the discovery of a new subtype of MODY diabetes,
potentially transforming how certain forms of the disease are diagnosed and treated worldwide.
The discovery centers around a rare, inherited form of diabetes called Maturity-Onset Diabetes of
the Young (MODY), a genetic form of diabetes typically diagnosed in childhood and adolescence
and has been published online ahead of print in the prestigious journal ‘Diabetes’, published by the
American Diabetes Association.
The study, based on a collaborative investigation involving detailed genetic and functional analyses
of Indian patients clinically diagnosed with MODY, reveals a groundbreaking mechanism behind a
subtype of MODY affecting the ABCC8 gene which plays a crucial role in pancreatic β cell function.
Prof Colin G Nichols, the lead researcher of this work from Washington University School of
Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA states: “Usually ABCC8 mutations work through Gain Of Function
(GOF) mutations which lead to enhanced ABCC8 protein activity. This can occur in neonatal period
when it is known as Neonatal Diabetes. In adults it occurs as ABCC8 MODY or MODY 12). Through
our collaborative work with MDRF, using various experiments in the laboratory, we were able to
show some novel mutations in the Indian patients with MODY which occur as Loss Of Function
(LOF). LOF mutations, abolish or reduce the activity of protein and they normally lead to Congenital
Hyperinsulinism (CHI) which presents as persistent low blood glucose levels (hypoglycemia) in
childhood. These patients seem to have had CHI earlier but crossed over to the opposite condition,
of high blood sugar (diabetes) in later life. This is the first demonstration of this mechanism in a
MODY subtype to our knowledge”.
Dr.  Radha Venkatesan, Executive Scientific Officer and Head of Molecular Genetics, who is the
lead researcher of this work from MDRF, emphasizes the importance of the work and states, “This
discovery of novel genetic subtype of MODY represents a significant advancement in our
understanding of MODY and explains the function of potassium ATP (K-ATP) channels in the
pancreatic beta cell membrane.   Through our work in the lab and follow-up of our patients, we
propose that diabetes driven by K ATP -Gain of Function and K ATP -Loss Of Function mutations should be
officially be recognized as distinct disease subtypes, with different molecular basis and different
clinical and therapeutic implications”. 
Dr. V. Mohan, Chairman of MDRF adds, “We are excited that we have discovered a new sub type
of MODY diabetes. This work underscores the importance of genetic testing and functional
understanding for precision diagnosis of diabetes in particular and MODY subtypes of diabetes in
particular. By identifying these unique subtypes of MODY, we are close to providing more precise
diagnosis, treatment and better care for individuals affected by this novel subtype of MODY.

Patients with this new (Loss of Function) MODY subtype do not respond to Sulphonylureas unlike
other forms of MODY like MODY 3 & MODY 1 & MODY 12. Further studies are needed to assess the
best antidiabetic medicines to treat this novel type of diabetes. This study also opens up new
avenues for discovery of novel drug targets in diabetes treatment”. 
MODY is a rare, inherited form of diabetes caused by mutations in a single gene, typically
presenting in adolescents and young adults. While 13 MODY subtypes have been recognized so far,
this newly identified variant upends long-standing assumptions about how the disease develops.
The discovery not only expands the scientific understanding of MODY but also underscores the
urgent need for wider access to genetic screening — particularly in countries like India, where such
testing is not yet part of routine diabetes care. This breakthrough could mark a turning point in
advancing personalized diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management for thousands of
individuals living with undetected or misclassified forms of diabetes.

MGM Healthcare Performs Landmark Renal Re-Transplant on 12-Year-Old Born Without Abdominal Veins

deccanwebtv May 9, 2025

Chennai, May 8, 2025: In a landmark surgical achievement, a multidisciplinary transplant team at MGM Healthcare successfully performed a complex renal re-transplant on a 12-year-old child from Lucknow, born with a rare vascular condition—classified as a V4 venous anomaly—that involved the absence of major abdominal veins and vein networks from birth.

The child had previously undergone a kidney transplant but had experienced graft failure and is waiting for the re-transplant. However, the absence of the usual venous drainage system presented a major surgical challenge. Demonstrating remarkable innovation, the surgical team identified and reused the venous pathways from the earlier transplant to ensure safe and effective placement and blood flow (perfusion) of the new graft. The old kidney graft was carefully removed while preserving the existing venous structures to facilitate the second transplant. The child is recovering well, demonstrating early graft function with no vascular or urological complications.

The surgery was led by Dr. Anil Vaidya, Chair and Director, Institute of Multi-Visceral and Abdominal Organ Transplant, MGM Healthcare, with support from a multidisciplinary team that included Dr. Sukanya Govindhan, Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist; Dr Senthil Muthuraman, Senior Consultant in Multi-Visceral and Abdominal Organ Transplant; Dr. Ram Gurajala, Interventional Radiologist; and anaesthesiologists: Dr. Dinesh Babu and Dr. Nivash Chandrasekaran.

In his comments, Dr. Ram Gurajala said, “A V4 venous anomaly is a rare condition where a child is born without the major veins (inferior vena cava and major iliac veins) in the belly and lower body that return blood to the heart. This makes surgeries like kidney transplants extremely difficult, as the usual pathways for blood flow are missing. However, we navigated this anatomical challenge by identifying and utilising the previously used venous outflow pathways, ensuring safe and effective graft placement and blood flow. This successful outcome brings renewed hope and quality of life to this young patient and family. It also paves the way for children with complex vascular anomalies—once considered unsuitable for transplantation—to be given a second chance through advanced surgical approaches.”

Dialysis is typically performed through either a fistula or venous access, but when these options are absent, a dialysis catheter can be placed. However, since the child had no patent veins that could be accessed from the groin or neck, the catheter was placed through a trans-lumbar approach (gaining access to the body through the lower back) into the inferior vena cava (IVC) above the kidney. This allowed the team to successfully dialyse the child for several months prior to the renal transplant. With the successful completion of the re-transplant, and the new kidney functioning well, the dialysis catheter is scheduled to be removed in a month.

Professor CM Thiagarajan, a senior nephrologist who was treating the child initially, said, “This case exemplifies how innovation and collaboration can redefine what’s possible in paediatric transplantation.”

உடனடிநோயறிதல்காரணமாகத்தீர்த்துவைக்கப்பட்டஎட்டுவயதுசிறுமியின்மருத்துவமர்மம் 

deccanwebtv May 6, 2025

– சென்னை, 26 ஏப்ரல், 2025

ரேடியல் சாலையில் உள்ள காவேரி மருத்துவமனையில், சிறுநீர் கட்டுப்பாடின்மை காரணமாகப் பல ஆண்டுகளாக தொடர்ந்து அசௌகரியத்தை அனுபவித்த எட்டு வயது சிறுமிக்கு, ஒரு தனித்துவமான பைலேட்ரல்இன்ட்ராவெசிகல் ரீ-இம்பிளான்டேஷன் (Bilateral Intravesical Reimplantation Surgery) அறுவைs சிகிச்சை மேற்கொள்ளப்பட்டது. எக்டோபிக் யூரிட்டர் (Ectopic Ureter) எனப்படும் அரிய நோயால் பாதிக்கப்பட்டிருந்தார் எனக்கண்டறியப்பட்டு, அறுவைச் சிகிச்சையினால் இறுதியாக முழு நிவாரணம் பெற்றுள்ளார். அவர், இன்று குணமடைந்து வருவது விடாமுயற்சி, கருணைகூர் பராமரிப்பு, மற்றும்முழுமையான மருத்துவ நிபுணத்துவத்தின் வல்லமைக்கு சான்றாக நிற்கிறது.

எக்டோபிக் யூரிட்டர் என்பது சிறுநீரகத்திலிருந்து சிறுநீர்ப்பைக்கு சிறுநீரைக் கொண்டு செல்லும் சிறுநீர்க்குழாய், சிறுநீர்ப்பையுடன் சரியாக இணையாமல், சிறுநீர்ப்பைக்கு வெளியே இணைந்திருக்கும் ஒரு பிறவிகுறைப்பாடாகும். இது சிறுநீர் வெளியேற்றத்தில் ஒழுங்கற்றத்தனத்தை ஏற்படுத்தி, சிறுநீர் கட்டுப்பாடின்மைபோன்ற அறிகுறிகளைத் தோற்றுவிக்கும், குறிப்பாக பெண்களில்.

குழந்தைப் பருவத்திலிருந்தே, அச்சிறுமி தொடர்ந்து சிறுநீர் கசிவால் அவதிப்பட்டு வந்தார். இதனால் இரவும் பகலும் டயப்பர்களையே சார்ந்து இருக்க வேண்டியநிலையிருந்தது. பல ஆண்டுகளாக ஒரு தீர்வைக் கண்டுபிடிக்க பல முயற்சிகள் மேற்கொள்ளப்பட்ட போதிலும், அவருடைய பிரச்சனை என்பது மீண்டும் மீண்டும் வரும் சிறுநீர் பாதை நோய்த்தொற்றுகள் மற்றும்வுல்வோவஜினைடிஸ் (Vulvovaginitis) என்று தவறாகக்கணிக்கப்பட்டுள்ளது. தொடர்ச்சியான ஈரப்பதம், கடுமையான தோல் உரிதல் போன்ற உடல் அசௌகரியத்துடனும், தனிமை, பழிச்சொல் போன்றமனவலியுடனும் போராடியுள்ளார்.

ரேடியல் சாலையில் உள்ள காவேரி மருத்துவமனையின் குழந்தை -சிறுநீரக மருத்துவ நிபுணரும், மூத்த ஆலோசகரும், மருத்துவருமான சங்கீதாவின் பராமரிப்பின் கீழ் வந்தபோது, ​​குழந்தையின் பயணம் நம்பிக்கைக்குரிய திருப்பத்தை எடுத்தது. விரிவான மருத்துவ மதிப்பீட்டின் போது, ​​ சிறுநீர்க்குழாயிலிருந்து தொடர்ச்சியான சிறுநீர் கசிவிற்குக் காரணம், எக்டோபிக் யூரிட்டராக இருக்குமோஎன்ற சந்தேகத்தை அடைந்தது மருத்துவ குழு. 

அல்ட்ராசவுண்ட், MR யூரோகிராம் மற்றும் சிஸ்டோஸ்கோபி உள்ளிட்ட மேலதிக மருத்துவ ஆய்வுகள், குழந்தையின் நிலை குறித்து முக்கியமான நுண்ணறிவுகளை வழங்கின. நோயைக் கண்டறிந்ததும், அறுவைச் சிகிச்சை தான் தீர்வுஎனும் தெளிவு கிடைக்கப்பெற்றது. குழந்தை அறுவைச்சிகிச்சை நிபுணரும் மருத்துவரான ராகுல் M அவர்களின் நிபுணத்துவத்தின் கீழ், குழந்தைக்கு பைலேட்ரல்இன்ட்ராவெசிகல் யூரிட்ரிக் ரீ-இம்பிளான்டேஷன் (Bilateral Intravesical Ureteric Reimplantation Surgery) அறுவை சிகிச்சை செய்யப்பட்டது.

அறுவைச் சிகிச்சைக்குப் பிந்தைய மாற்றம் குறிப்பிடத்தக்கது. பல ஆண்டுகளாகச் சிறுநீர்கட்டுப்பாடின்மையில் போராடிய பிறகு, அந்த சிறுமிதற்போது பகலிலும் இரவிலும் நிம்மதியாக இருக்கிறார்.இரண்டு மணி நேரம் வரை சிறுநீரைக் கட்டுப்படுத்தும்சாதனை என்பது, ஒரு காலத்தில் சாத்தியமற்றதாகஇருந்தது. இப்போது அவர் புது நம்பிக்கையுடனும் மகிழ்ச்சியுடனும் வாழ்க்கையை எதிர்கொள்கிறார்.

“எக்டோபிக் யூரிட்டர் என்பது அரிதான நோயாகஇருந்தாலும், விடாப்பிடியான சிறுநீர் கட்டுப்பாடின்மைக்கு ஒரு மறைமுக காரணமாக இருக்கலாம், குறிப்பாக இளம் பெண்களில்” என்று மருத்துவர் சங்கீதா விளக்கினார். “இந்த விஷயத்தில், விரிவான வரலாறு மருத்துவ பரிசோதனைகளின் வழியாக மூல காரணத்தைக் கண்டறிந்து, அவளுக்கு ஒரு சாதாரண, மகிழ்ச்சியான குழந்தைப் பருவத்தை அனுபவிக்க ஒரு வாய்ப்பை வழங்க எங்களுக்கு உதவியது” என்றார்.

சென்னை ரேடியல் சாலையிலுள்ள காவேரி மருத்துவமனை, ஒரு முன்னணி சுகாதார நிறுவனமாகும். நரம்பியல், இருதயவியல், இரைப்பை குடல், பெண்கள் மற்றும் குழந்தை நலம், எலும்பியல், மூட்டு புணரமைப்பு, சிறுநீரகம், சிறுநீரகம் முதலிய சிறப்புப் பிரிவுகளில், மேம்பட்ட மருத்துவமும், அறுவை சிகிச்சை வசதியும் வழங்குகின்றது. பிரத்தியேக நிபுணர்கள் குழு, 50+ கிரிட்டிக்கல் கேர் படுக்கைகள், 20+ NICU படுக்கைகள், 7+ ஆபரேஷன் தியேட்டர்கள், ஒரு மேம்பட்ட கேத் லேப், 3T MRI மற்றும் 4K + 3D நரம்பியல் நுண்ணோக்கி, உறுப்பு மாற்று சிகிச்சை வசதிகள், 24/7 டயாலிசிஸ் பிரிவு போன்ற அதி நவீன வசதிகளின் மூலம் உலகத்தரம் வாய்ந்த மருத்துவ சேவையை, உலகம் முழுவதும் உள்ள நோயாளிகளுக்கு வழங்குகின்றது.

Kauvery Hospital releases data on the Diabetes Prevalence in Chennai through a cross sectional study

deccanwebtv Apr 17, 2025

• 21% of study population with no prior history of Type 2 Diabetes were unaware of their abnormality in blood sugar levels

Chennai, April 16th 2025: – Kauvery Hospital Alwarpet, a unit of Kauvery Group of Hospitals a multispeciality healthcare chain in Tamil Nadu, has released key findings from a comprehensive study conducted across the Chennai population, shedding light on the urgent need for improved diabetes awareness and prevention strategies.

As part of its commitment to community health, the hospital launched the Diabetes on Wheels initiative in 2024, a cross-sectional screening study where a dedicated medical team conducted a free diabetes screening program across Chennai over 100 days. This program was carried out at various locations throughout the city, screening 3,971 individuals.  The initiative revealed critical gaps in early detection and identified significant risk factors (obesity, eating patterns) contributing to the rising prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM).

Key findings from the study include:

• 21% of individuals with no prior history of Type 2 Diabetes were unaware of their abnormality in blood sugar levels (dysglycemia), indicating a substantial gap in early diagnosis and awareness.

• 55.1% of women with a history of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) (high blood sugar levels during pregnancy)  developed Type 2 Diabetes, highlighting the importance of post-pregnancy diabetes screening and preventive interventions.

3.4% of women had history of GDM (Gestational Diabetes Mellitus)

55.1% of women with GDM went on to develop T2DM (Type 2 Diabetes)

• The prevalence of obesity is significantly higher in individuals with a history of Type 2 Diabetes, (67.6%) and in individuals who were not aware of their dysglycemia (64.7%) reinforcing the strong link between obesity and diabetes.

The prevalence of obesity is higher in individuals with a T2DM (Type 2 Diabetes) history and in individuals who were not aware of their dysglycemia

• Carbohydrate intake was notably higher in individuals unaware of their dysglycemia 88.5%, suggesting that dietary habits play a crucial role in undiagnosed blood sugar irregularities.

Dr. Baraneedharan K, Senior Consultant Diabetologist at Kauvery Hospital, highlighted the purpose and significance of the study, stating, “These findings emphasize the urgent need for proactive screening programs, lifestyle modifications, and public health initiatives to combat diabetes effectively. Furthermore, healthcare policies and government initiatives can play a crucial role in creating a more supportive environment for diabetes prevention and management, ensuring that resources reach the most vulnerable populations. I urge the public to begin prioritizing their health by spending 45 minutes everyday for physical exercise , follow mindful eating to prevent obesity and take care of mental well being . Regular screenings can also help detect non communicable diseases such as Diabetes, Hypertension, and heart diseases.”

“The prevalence of Diabetes has been increasing worldwide, and there are several factors that contribute to the same. As responsible healthcare providers, we not only focus on treating , but the prevention. Through regular screenings and awareness programs among the community, we aim to reduce the burden of Diabetes in the region. I appreciate Dr Baraneedharan and team for this initiative which will create a significant impact among the people,” said Dr Aravindan Selvaraj Co-Founder and Executive Director Kauvery Group of Hospitals.

SIMS Hospital Launches ‘Care Bears’ – A Free Paediatric Health Check-up Program for Children in Government Palvadi and KindergartensAcross Chennai

deccanwebtv Apr 7, 2025

Aims to reach 10,000 children below the age of 5 by the end of the year
Chennai, April 7, 2025

On the occasion of World Health Day, and in line with this year’s theme “Healthy
Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” SIMS Hospital, Vadapalani, a leading centre for
advanced healthcare services, launched ‘Care Bears – Nurturing the Future’, a
citywide free paediatric health check-up program. This initiative is aimed at benefiting
children under the age of five studying in Government Palvadis and Kindergarten
schools across Chennai.
The launch event was graced by Dr. Kalanidhi Veerasamy, Honourable Member of
Parliament, who presided as the Chief Guest and officially inaugurated the program.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Raju Sivasamy, Vice President, SIMS Hospital, said:
“World Health Day serves as a reminder that the health of our youngest citizens
must remain a top priority. Every child deserves access to quality preventive
healthcare early in life. Through ‘Care Bears’, SIMS Hospital is proud to invest in a
future where children are given the healthiest possible start. This program represents
more than just a health check, it’s our commitment to making preventive paediatric
care accessible to all. Let this be a starting point for collective action – by families,
institutions, and communities – to ensure no child is left behind when it comes to
basic healthcare and well-being.”
‘Care Bears’ is an initiative spearheaded by the Paediatrics Department at SIMS
Hospital in collaboration with Government Palvadis and Kindergarten schools across
Chennai. The program is designed to offer comprehensive paediatric care that
includes regular screening, early diagnosis, nutritional guidance, and parent
education.
As part of this outreach, a dedicated team of paediatricians and healthcare
professionals from SIMS Hospital will conduct monthly visits to participating schools.
Children aged 0–5 years will be screened for growth parameters including height,
weight, developmental milestones, and cognitive and emotional wellbeing. Additional
assessments will include checks for chest deformities, dental hygiene, sensory
health such as vision and hearing, and overall physical wellness.
Beyond health assessments, Care Bears will also feature interactive awareness
sessions for parents, focusing on the importance of early intervention and how to
nurture a healthy child. These sessions aim to equip parents with the knowledge and
confidence to make informed decisions about their child’s health journey.
With a goal to impact 10,000 children by the end of 2025, SIMS Hospital reaffirms its
commitment to preventive healthcare and community well-being – one child at a time.

MGM Healthcare Performs World’s First Modified Multi-Visceral Transplant for Rare Intestinal Disorder

deccanwebtv Apr 4, 2025

Chennai, April 4th, 2025: In a groundbreaking medical achievement, MGM Healthcare has successfully performed the World’s first modified multi-visceral transplant (MMVT) for the treatment of a rare intestinal disorder, saving the life of a 32-year-old patient from Kerala who had been suffering from bloody diarrhea, along with a severe drop in hemoglobin levels, progressive malnutrition, recurrent infections, and abdominal swelling.

His diagnosis, diffuse primary lymphangioma of the intestine, was a non-malignant intestinal condition. It was so extensive that conventional surgical approaches, such as bowel resection, were not viable. To address this, the expert surgical team at MGM Healthcare performed a modified multi-visceral transplant, replacing the stomach, pancreatico-duodenal complex (the pancreas and the first part of the small intestine), small intestine, and large intestine, with innovative modifications to enhance graft function and reduce immunologic risks. The patient is now recovering well, marking a major milestone in transplant medicine and offering new hope for those with complex intestinal disorders.

Before proceeding with the modified multi-visceral transplant (MMVT), the medical team at MGM Healthcare took critical steps to stabilise the patient. Given the severity of gastrointestinal bleeding caused by diffuse primary intestinal lymphangioma, the team performed an emergent subtotal enterectomy, which refers to the surgical removal of a significant portion of the diseased intestine to control the bleeding. The team also initiated total parenteral nutrition (TPN), a method of delivering essential nutrients intravenously, bypassing the digestive system altogether to ensure the patient’s nutritional stability. These interventions optimised the patient’s condition for the complex transplant procedure that followed.

The MMVT surgical intervention was headed by Prof. Dr. Anil Vaidya, M.D., Chair and Director of the Institute of Multi-Visceral and Abdominal Organ Transplant, along with Dr. Senthil Muthuraman, senior Consultant, Multi Visceral and abdominal organ transplant and Dr. Sivakumar Mahalingam, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Dr. Venkatesh B.S, Consultant Multi Visceral Transplant Program at MGM Healthcare. The anesthesia and intensive care team comprised Dr. Dinesh Babu, and Dr. Nivash Chandrasekaran.

In his comments, Prof. Dr. Anil Vaidya, said that the patient had an exceptionally high disease burden, with extensive involvement of the small intestine, making traditional surgical options like segmental resection ineffective. Given the severity of his condition, we needed an innovative approach to restore his digestive function and overall health. Our team decided to proceed with a modified multi-visceral transplant, replacing the stomach, pancreatico-duodenal complex, small intestine, and large intestine. We also made key modifications to improve graft function and reduce the risk of complications. I am truly delighted that the world’s first MMVT for this rare condition has been a success. The patient has now gone over two months without any signs of graft rejection or major complications, which is a remarkable outcome.”

In his comments, Dr. Senthil Muthuraman, said, “Primary intestinal lymphangioma is an exceptionally rare condition. The patient developed enteropathy, which led to chronic diarrhea, malabsorption of nutrients, and protein loss. The bloody diarrhea persisted for over a month and hemoglobin dropped to dangerous levels, requiring multiple blood transfusions. The extensive involvement of the small intestine made conventional treatments unfeasible. We first performed a subtotal enterectomy to control the bleeding and placed him on TPN to ensure he remained strong enough for the transplant. It is truly gratifying to see that he has made an excellent recovery, with no signs of graft rejection, resolution of enteropathy, and optimal graft function. This case marks a major breakthrough in transplant surgery, and we are proud to have been part of this life-saving procedure.”

Kauvery Hospital Vadapalani Successfully Performs Paediatric Liver Transplant on a 4-Month-Old Infant

deccanwebtv Apr 4, 2025

Chennai, 3rd April 2025: Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani, has successfully performed a complex paediatric liver transplant on a four-month-old baby, completely free of cost under the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’s Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme. This procedure was carried out by the hospital’s expert team, making it one of the few centers in Tamil Nadu capable of performing paediatric liver transplants under this initiative.

The infant was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder that led to liver failure and severe jaundice. The baby, weighing only 3.5 kg, was brought to Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani, in critical condition. Given the urgency of the case, the hospital swiftly obtained the necessary approvals, including clearance under the Tamil Nadu CM Scheme, and completed the transplant within 10 days.

In an inspiring act of maternal love, the baby’s mother stepped forward as the donor. A portion of her liver, weighing approximately 110 grams, was successfully transplanted into her child. The procedure was performed by Dr. SwaminathanSambandam, Director of Liver & Multi-Organ Transplant Surgery at Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani, using a laparoscopic-assisted donor surgery for a minimally invasive approach. The mother was discharged just three days after surgery, and both mother and child are now in good health.

The success of such a challenging procedure was made possible by Kauvery Hospital Vadapalani’s highly specialized team, which includes Paediatric Intensive Care Specialists, PaediatricAnaesthesiologists, Liver Transplant Surgeons, PaediatricHepatologists, Radiologists, and Interventional Radiologists. Paediatric liver transplants, especially in infants under 4 kg and 6 months old, pose extreme surgical challenges. The blood vessels in such small infants are extremely tiny, with arteries as small as 2 mm and veins around 3 mm, requiring exceptional precision and expertise. Due to the baby’s small size, even the 110-gram liver graft had to be accommodated with great difficulty. The post-operative period was equally critical, demanding meticulous care from intensivists, anaesthetists, and an expert nursing team to monitor and manage the baby’s recovery under immunosuppressive therapy.

The successful completion of this paediatric liver transplant under the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’s Scheme highlights Kauvery Hospital Vadapalani’s ability to provide advanced medical care at no cost to families in need. The baby, now active, playful, and on full feeds, was discharged 20 days after surgery an incredible achievement for the entire medical team.

“We are proud to have been able to perform this life-saving procedure for the baby and her family. Paediatric liver transplants require precise surgical techniques and a highly coordinated post-operative care plan. Our team worked tirelessly to make this possible,” said Dr. Swaminathan Sambandam, Director of Liver & Multi-Organ Transplant Surgery at Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani.

Dr. Aravindan Selvaraj, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Kauvery Group of Hospitals, said, “This case reflects our hospital’s expertise in complex procedures and our focus on making advanced treatments accessible to all. The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’s Scheme plays a vital role in making sure that families receive the care they need without financial burden.”

Kauvery Hospital Vadapalani is a leading multi-specialty healthcare institution providing cutting-edge medical care with a focus on transplantation, Paediatric critical care, and minimally invasive procedures. Equipped with advanced infrastructure and a team of highly skilled professionals, the hospital continues to set futuristic benchmarks in healthcare excellence.

Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital Averts Corneal Transplant; Treats Senior Citizen’s Damaged Cornea with Pinhole Pupilloplasty

deccanwebtv Mar 20, 2025

Chennai, March 2025: Marking a breakthrough in advanced ophthalmic care, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital successfully performed a complex surgical intervention that combined pinhole pupilloplasty (PPP) with corneal and scleral repair to restore the vision of a senior citizen who sustained severe injuries in his right eye while playing badminton. The emergency intervention successfully avoided the need for corneal transplantation, significantly reducing the risks of infections and graft rejection while ensuring a safer and more effective vision restoration.

The integration of Pinhole Pupilloplasty (PPP) with multiple surgical procedures, including intraocular tissue repositioning and artificial lens implantation to address the patient’s pre-existing cataract, is a rare and complex intervention. Led by Prof. Dr. Amar Agarwal, Chairman of Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital, the surgery lasted approximately an hour. Following the procedure, the patient completely regained his vision, and the wound is healing well.

Introduced by Prof. Dr. Amar Agarwal in 2018, Pinhole Pupilloplasty (PPP) is a technique designed to reduce the pupil size to that of a pinhole, limiting the amount of light entering the eye. This ensures that images focus sharply on the retina, thereby enhancing the patient’s visual acuity. Traditionally, PPP has been used primarily for the treatment of high astigmatism. People with conditions like keratoconus, post-pterygium excision, and post-corneal tear repair, can experience significant improvement in their quality of vision following Pinhole Pupilloplasty.

Addressing a press conference, Prof. Dr. Amar Agarwal, Chairman, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital said the patient, Mr. Mani, 67 years old, suffered a severe injury to his right eye, with complete corneal damage. In such cases, corneal transplantation would typically be performed, requiring donor cornea from a cadaver. Transplantation typically involves multiple sutures, increasing the risk of infection and long-term complications. “However, we opted for a full-thickness repair of the cornea and sclera—the frontal parts of the eye—repositioned the prolapsed intraocular contents, and implanted an artificial lens to treat the pre-existing cataract. Since patients who undergo corneal tear repair often experience visual deterioration due to high astigmatism and corneal aberrations, we combined the procedure with Pinhole Pupilloplasty. All these interventions were performed in a single sitting, ensuring a comprehensive and effective solution for vision restoration.”

In his comments, Dr Ashvin Agarwal, Chief Clinical Officer, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital said, “Over 54% of ocular emergencies and 32% of blindness cases in India result from trauma, often leading to corneal scarring, opacities, and astigmatism, which cause vision loss or blurring. In severe cases, corneal transplantation is typically performed. However, even after a transplant, vision impairment may persist. Pinhole Pupilloplasty (PPP) has emerged as a groundbreaking alternative for many patients. It requires no additional equipment, is easy to learn, and significantly reduces surgical costs. PPP is particularly beneficial for conditions such as corneal scarring and opacities that would otherwise require full-thickness corneal grafting. Additionally, patients with high astigmatism—such as those with keratoconus, post-pterygium excision, or post-corneal tear repair—can achieve significant improvements in their visual quality through this procedure.”

In her comments, Dr. S. Soundari, Regional Head – Clinical Services, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, said that the cornea plays a crucial role in focusing vision, but it can be damaged due to various factors, including injuries, exposure to explosions, complications after eye transplantation or surgery, or conditions like keratoconus, a conical deformity of the cornea. The patient had suffered corneal and scleral tears along with a prolapse of intraocular tissues in his right eye. He was admitted to the hospital with severe pain and vision loss. However, we combined the repair of torn corneal and scleral layers, cataract surgery, and PPP in a single sitting, eliminating the need for multiple procedures. Thanks to PPP, corneal transplantation was also avoided. Following the surgery, he is recovering well and doing extremely well.”

Rela Hospital Launches India’s First Intestinal Rehabilitation Centre to Expand Treatment Horizons Beyond Transplantation

deccanwebtv Feb 28, 2025

Chennai, 28 February 2025: Rela Hospital, a leading multispecialty hospital in the city, has opened Centre for Intestinal Rehabilitation and Nutrition Support, a first-of-its-kind facility in the country, to offer a comprehensive range of medical, surgical and nutritional therapies for rare intestinal failures and complex gastrointestinal disorders, with a particular focus on preterm babies who are not medically fit for intestinal transplants.

The centre has a multidisciplinary team, comprising expert surgeons, gastroenterologists, dietitians, and nursing specialists, to provide integrated care, essential for repair, regeneration, and elongation of intestines. This team led by Prof. Anil Vaidya Director – Multivisceral Organ Transplantation and Dr. Naresh Shanmugam Director – Women and Child Health & Senior Pediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Rela Hospital includes 10 other experts. This team will provide end-to-end care for intestinal failure from extremely premature infants to adolescents. Intestinal failures refer to the condition when the intestines are not able to properly absorb the nutrient either due to genetic problems or due to removal of small intestines due to disease. These children would be dependent on total parenteral nutrition (nutrition through veins). The team will support both medically and surgically to rehabilitate (increase the absorption capacity) the intestine. This process might take several months and would require total parenteral nutrition. Home parenteral nutrition, a method of providing nutrients intravenously in the home setting, would be provided for stable children.

This centre addresses a range of intestinal failure and gastrointestinal conditions, including: Short Bowel Syndrome, marked by reduced intestinal function; Chronic Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction, where the intestines fail to move food properly; Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, characterised by chronic digestive tract inflammation; Hirschsprung Disease, causing severe constipation due to missing colon nerve cells; Omphalocele, the protrusion of abdominal organs at birth; Necrotising Enterocolitis, intestinal damage in premature infants; and volvulus, a dangerous intestinal twisting that cuts off blood supply.

It offers comprehensive care through a range of specialised services. Most of these infants / children would be really unwell requiring Neonatal/pediatric intensive care to stabilise and support. Oral feeding with special formulations, special feeding techniques for intestines to adopt along Parenteral Nutrition to provide adequate calories for their growth would be done by Gastroenterology and Nutrition team. Children who have never eaten anything by mouth from birth, will not know how to eat they require special support from department of communication & swallow sciences. If feasible, bowel lengthening surgery would be done and if all methods fail, these children will finally require intestinal transplant.

In his comments, Prof Mohamed Rela, Chairman and Managing Director, Rela Hospital, said, “While intestinal failure is rare in children overall, affecting approximately 24 in 100,000 babies, it significantly affects preterm infants. In India intestinal transplantation is often the primary treatment. However, our vision is to provide a comprehensive range of unique treatment services to the children, thus minimising the need for transplantation. We prioritise medical, surgical, and nutritional therapies to encourage natural intestinal growth, aligning with advanced international standards. We have an ongoing partnership with Carevue Health in offering these services. We hope that this new centre would benefit a large number of children from India and neighbouring countries.”

In his comments, Prof. Anil Vaidya, Director – Multivisceral Organ Transplantation, Rela Hospital, said, “The intestine, comprising the small intestine (10 feet in newborns, 20 feet in adults) and the large intestine (around 5 feet), plays a critical role in digestion. While losing the large intestine may have a lesser impact, the small intestine, where most digestion occurs, is essential. Its loss results in food passing undigested, necessitating intravenous nutrition (parenteral nutrition) for survival in cases of intestinal failure. Our center provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary support for infants, children, and adolescents with intestinal failure and complex gastrointestinal conditions.”

Dr. Naresh Shanmugam, Director – Women and Child Health & Senior Pediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Rela Hospital commented, “The intestinal rehabilitation centre will provide end-to-end care encompassing a wide range of specialisations and nutritional & medical support for small infants both in hospital and in-home until they reach adequate weight where surgery or transplant could be offered. The services include advanced therapies to support intestinal function, personalised treatment for better patient outcomes, and collaborations with partner hospitals for continuity of care. Importantly, we offer Home Parenteral Nutrition (HPN) programs for sustained support, enabling patients to receive vital nutrition at home. Our multidisciplinary team works to transition patients from IV nutrition to oral or enteral feeding, reducing transplantation requirements, improving long-term outcomes, and reducing healthcare costs.”

Dr. Ilankumaran Kaliamoorthy, CEO, Rela Hospital, commented, “This Centre would deliver unique services which would benefit a lot of children not only from India but also from neighbouring countries.”

ஆசிய – ஆஸ்திரலேசியன் நரம்பியல் அறுவைச் சிகிச்சை கருத்தரங்கு….

deccanwebtv Feb 24, 2025

ஆசிய – ஆஸ்திரலேசியன் நரம்பியல் அறுவைச் சிகிச்சை கருத்தரங்கின் பின்னணியில் டாக்டர் B. ராமமூர்த்தி நினைவுச் சொற்பொழிவை திரு. கோபாலகிருஷ்ண காந்தி வழங்கினார்

ஆசிய – ஆஸ்திரலேசியன் நரம்பியல் அறுவைச் சிகிச்சை (AASNS – Asian Australasian Neurosurgery) கருத்தரங்கின் ஒரு பகுதியாக ஏற்பாடு செய்யப்பட்டு, வருடத்திற்கு இருமுறை நடத்தப்படும் டாக்டர் B. ராமமூர்த்தி சொற்பொழிவில், முன்னாள் ஆளுநரும், இராஜதந்திரியும், சிறந்த நிர்வாகியுமான திரு. கோபாலகிருஷ்ண காந்தி அவர்கள், ஞாயிற்றுக்கிழமை 23 ஃபிப்ரவரி 2025 அன்று சென்னையில் நடைபெற்ற நிகழ்வில் உரையாற்றினார்.

காவேரி மருத்துவமனையின் வழிகாட்டியும், நரம்பியல் இயக்குநரும் மருத்துவருமான கிரிஷ் ஸ்ரீதர் பேசுகையில், “டாக்டர் B. ராமமூர்த்தி இந்தியாவின் முன்னோடி நரம்பியல் அறுவைச் சிகிச்சை நிபுணர், இந்திய நரம்பியல் சங்கம் (NSI – Neurological Society of India) & ஆசிய – ஆஸ்திரலேசியன் சங்கத்தின் நிறுவன உறுப்பினராவர். அவர் குருவாகவும், வழிகாட்டியாகவும், நண்பராகவும் பலருக்கு வழிகாட்டியுள்ளார்” என்றார். திரு. கோபாலகிருஷ்ண காந்தி, ‘கோபத்தின் தந்திரமான வழி (The Wily way of Anger)’ எனும் தலைப்பில், கோபமுறும் மனிதனுக்கு ஏற்படும் தாக்கத்தையும், அதன் விளைவுகளையும் பற்றிச் சுட்டிக் காட்டினார். மேலும், “கோபம் என்பது ஒரு உலகளாவிய மனிதப் பண்பு, எந்த மனிதனும் அதிலிருந்து விடுபட முடியாது. இது, அவ்வப்போது நம்மை வெல்லும் ஒரு உயிரினத்துடன் வாழ்வதைப் போன்றது. நாம் வெட்கப்பட வேண்டிய விஷயங்களைச் சொல்லவும் செய்யவும் நம்மை ஆட்படுத்தி விடுகிறது” என்றார்.

AASNS-இன் சர்வதேச சந்திப்பில், 200க்கும் மேற்பட்ட பிரதிநிதிகள், 20க்கும் மேற்பட்ட சர்வதேச ஆசிரியர்களுடன் கலந்துகொண்டனர். தலை மற்றும் முதுகுத்தண்டு காயம், முதுகுத்தண்டு அறுவைச் சிகிச்சை மற்றும் மூளைக் கட்டி அறுவைச் சிகிச்சை குறித்த ஆலோசனைகள் 2 நாட்கள் நடந்தன. இச்சந்திப்பில், இளம் நரம்பியல் அறுவைச் சிகிச்சை நிபுணர்களின் குறிப்பிடத்தக்க பங்கேற்பு இருந்தது.

AASNS கல்விக் குழுவின் துணை தலைவரும், NSI இன் தலைவராகத் தேர்ந்தெடுக்கப்பட்டவருமான மருத்துவர் கிரிஷ் ஸ்ரீதர், “எந்தவொரு நரம்பியல் அறுவைச் சிகிச்சை சமூகத்திற்கும் கல்வி எப்போதும் ஒரு முக்கிய நோக்கமாக இருந்து வருகிறது. மூத்த மற்றும் திறன் வாய்ந்த நரம்பியல் அறுவைச் சிகிச்சை நிபுணர்களின் அனுபவமும் நிபுணத்துவமும் அடுத்த தலைமுறைக்குக் கடத்தப்படுவது முக்கியம். டாக்டர் ராமமூர்த்தி இளம் நரம்பியல் அறுவைச் சிகிச்சை நிபுணர்களின் கல்வி மற்றும் வழிகாட்டுதலுக்கு முன்மாதிரியாக இருந்தார். இத்தகைய கல்வித் திட்டத்தின் பின்னணியில் நினைவுச் சொற்பொழிவு நிகழ்த்தப்பட்டது மிகப் பொருத்தமானது” என்றார்.