Lilavati Hospital Launches Fetal Surgery Center to Combat Spina Bifida Cases
Written by Arushi Sharma
Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai takes a proactive stance against Spina bifida with the launch of a Fetal Surgery Center. Dr. Santosh Karmarkar sheds light on the challenges, stressing the significance of preventive measures and early interventions.
In a proactive move to address the rising challenges posed by Spina bifida cases, Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai has announced plans to establish a state-of-the-art Fetal Surgery Center.
The center aims to perform complex in-utero surgeries specifically tailored for treating Spina bifida, a condition that presents a significant public health concern in Maharashtra and India, with four to five cases reported per 1,000 live births.
Dr. Santosh Karmarkar, Pediatric Surgeon at Lilavati Hospital, shed light on the pressing issues surrounding Spina bifida, emphasizing the lack of awareness and financial constraints that impact approximately 70 percent of patients, denying them the required treatment. Dr. Karmarkar stressed the importance of a suitable diet in preventing Spina bifida, stating, "Folic acid-rich foods can prevent neural tube defects," and advised proactive measures before conception.
Highlighting the positive impact of timely interventions, Dr. Karmarkar shared success stories, including those of Rishi Ganesh Gupta and Piyush Sahilkar. These cases underscore the significance of early diagnosis and appropriate medical interventions.
To address the impending crisis of rising Spina bifida cases, Lilavati Hospital is organizing a free counseling program in collaboration with the Spina Bifida Foundation. The program is scheduled for Sunday, January 30, 2024, and aims to provide information and support to affected individuals and their families. Patients from economically weaker sections may avail themselves of waived surgery charges through SEWA and the Spina Bifida Foundation’s support.
Lt Gen (Dr) V Ravishankar, Consultant Cardiovascular Surgeon and COO at Lilavati Hospital, highlighted the hospital's role as a referral center for high-risk surgeries. He emphasized the urgent need for awareness campaigns to address the often overlooked status of Spina bifida in rural areas.
Details of the Counseling Program:
· Date: January 30, 2024
· Venue: 5th Floor, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Bandra Reclamation, Bandra, Mumbai. 400050
· For Free Registration: Call 7905920464 or visit Lilavati Hospital's Spina Bifida Page
The establishment of the Fetal Surgery Center and the counseling program underline Lilavati Hospital's commitment to tackling Spina bifida through a combination of advanced medical interventions, awareness initiatives, and community support.