In a remarkable feat of medical expertise and courage, a team of our stellar doctors at ROYAL Hospital, led by renowned neonatal surgeon Dr. Sanjay Khope, successfully operated on a newborn weighing merely 500 grams. Born prematurely and facing a near-fatal birth defect involving the heart, lungs, and respiratory diaphragm, this tiny warrior defied the odds and emerged victorious.

The infant in question was one of a set of twins, born prematurely and immediately facing the challenges associated with their early arrival. While the birth defect wasn't diagnosed before delivery, our vigilant team identified the issue soon after birth. The babies were promptly placed on ventilators due to their prematurity, with the critically affected baby requiring urgent surgical intervention to survive.

What made this case exceptionally challenging was the presence of extremely high-risk factors. The heart was discovered on the right side, and all abdominal contents were situated in the left chest, leaving the baby struggling to breathe due to the absence of the left half of the diaphragm. This condition is inherently perilous, even with the advancements in medical technologies, and taking the risk to operate on such a delicate newborn was nothing short of extraordinary.

Leading the charge, Dr. Sanjay Khope, supported by a surgical team which included pediatric anaesthetist Dr. Neena Faldesai and neonatologist Dr. Kamlesh Kepker, embarked on a complex operation to correct the life-threatening defect.

The successful outcome of the surgery speaks volumes about the expertise and dedication of the medical professionals at ROYAL Hospital. Dr. Khope and his team navigated the intricacies of the operation with precision and skill, ultimately saving the life of the premature baby. The decision to operate on a newborn with such a rare and complex birth defect, coupled with the inherent risks of prematurity, demonstrated not only medical proficiency but also an unwavering commitment to preserving life.

Post-surgery, the baby is currently under specialized care, relying on ventilatory support at our neonatal intensive care facility. The twin sibling, also facing prematurity-related challenges, is receiving the necessary attention and care alongside the miracle baby. Both infants are being closely monitored until they reach a stage of stability and safety.

This medical triumph serves as a beacon of hope for families facing similar challenges and a testament to the resilience of newborns, the skill of medical professionals, and the unwavering spirit of life. This successful operation at ROYAL Hospital stands as a shining example of how advancements in medical science, coupled with the courage to take on unprecedented challenges, can pave the way for miracles in the face of adversity