AIIMS-Bhubaneswar Doctors Save 1.1 Kg Newborn Battling Rare Condition

Bhubaneswar: Paediatric surgeons at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bhubaneswar, have saved the life of a prematurely born 1.1 kg baby afflicted with duodenal atresia, an exceptionally rare condition.

“The infant was born prematurely with duodenal atresia in our hospital, a congenital anomaly characterised by a blockage in the first part of the small intestine known as the duodenum. This condition, occurring in approximately 1 in 10,000 live births, poses a significant threat to the newborn’s life if not promptly addressed,” the hospital said in a release.

The baby was admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in critical condition, battling not only the challenges of prematurity but also the life-threatening complications associated with duodenal atresia.

A team of dedicated paediatric surgeons led by the head of the Paediatric Surgery Department, Dr Manoj Kumar Mohanty, devised a comprehensive treatment plan to save the baby. “Despite the unique set of challenges, we were determined to provide the best possible care and outcomes for the baby. The surgical intervention involved delicate procedures aimed at correcting the obstruction in the duodenum and restoring the normal flow of nutrients through the digestive tract,” said Mohanty.

Following the successful surgery, the newborn was closely monitored in NICU and provided round-the-clock care to ensure stable recovery. “The newborn responded exceptionally well to treatment and is making steady progress towards recovery. This case serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of our team and the unwavering determination to overcome even the most challenging medical obstacles,” Mohanty said.

A similar case, 1.1 kg premature baby with jejunal atresia was successfully managed by the same team a few weeks ago, the release added.