MGM Healthcare Performs World’s First Modified Multi-Visceral Transplant

Mumbai / Chennai, April 5th, 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.”

Successful Surgical Removal of Lodged Denture at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road

Mumbai: – In a remarkable surgical procedure, Dr. Chandra Veer Singh and his skilled medical team at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, successfully removed a lodged denture from the esophagus of a 74-year-old patient, Mrs. Sandhya Thakur (name changed). The complex surgery became necessary after an initial endoscopic removal attempt was unsuccessful due to deep embedding in the esophageal mucosa. Mrs. Sandhya Thakur arrived at the hospital experiencing severe difficulty in swallowing and discomfort for six days. A Gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy confirmed that a denture was lodged just below the upper esophageal sphincter (UES). Attempts to extract it using endoscopic instruments such as rat-tooth forceps failed due to deep embedding, making surgical intervention essential.

A multidisciplinary surgical team from Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, led by Dr. Chandraveer Singh Consultant Otorhinolaryngologist, Head & Neck Oncosurgeon, Dr. Tirathram Kaushik Consultant Oncosurgeon & Minimal Access Surgeon and Dr. Sheetal Radia Consultant Otorhinolaryngologist, Head & Neck Oncosurgeon performed an esophagostomy through a neck incision under general anesthesia. The foreign body was carefully removed en bloc, and the esophagus was repaired using 3-0 PDS sutures to ensure proper healing. Hemostasis was confirmed, and a surgical drain was placed before closing the incision in layers. Following the procedure, Mrs. Sandhya Thakur is in stable condition and under close monitoring for any post-operative complications, such as infection or swallowing difficulties.

Foreign body ingestion, particularly lodged dentures, is a significant medical concern among the elderly. If left untreated, it can result in perforation, infection, and life-threatening complications. This case underscores the expertise and precision of the surgical team at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road who successfully managed this high-risk case with advanced surgical techniques. Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, continues to uphold its commitment to advanced medical interventions and patient-centered care. The successful removal of the lodged denture reinforces the hospital’s reputation for handling complex cases with cutting-edge expertise and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Mrs Sandhya Thakur is expected to make a full recovery under the continued supervision of the medical team. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis, timely intervention, and advanced medical facilities in ensuring successful patient outcomes.

5 Effects of Winter on Fertility A Guide to Couples Planning a Baby

By, Dr. Smrithi D Nayak, Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aster RV Hospital

Winter in India introduces a specific set of issues and opportunities for those who want to start or expand their families. Here’s how the cold time of the year may play with fertility, along with some tips to make the best of it:

1. Improved Fertility: Hormones in action during Winters
There are changes of hormones that happen normally at this time. Researchers have found that during the winter, levels ofluteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) are made at a greater rate, thus bringing quality to ovulation and sperm. Most men notice a peak in testosterone during winter and women notice regularity of their cycles, increasing their chances of conceiving.

Pro Tip: Keep a close eye on ovulation during this time and have intercourse during your fertile window for maximum success.

2. Improved Sperm Quality in Men
The cooler temperatures are more favorable to sperm production and quality. Heat can damage sperm, but winter’s cooler climate maintains an ideal environment, thus boosting sperm count and motility.

Pro Tip: Advise your partner to avoid overly tight clothing and hot baths to maintain optimum sperm health throughout winter.

3. Seasonal Diet Boosts Fertility
Winter has plenty of fertility-enhancing foods, such as green leafy vegetables (spinach, fenugreek), fresh citrus fruits (oranges, guava), and nuts. These are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals needed to maintain the reproductive system. Foods like sesame seeds and jaggery are also taken as natural fertility enhancers in Indian traditional diets.

Pro Tip: Eat seasonal food in your everyday diet to boost your reproductive health and keep your hormones in check.

4. Less Stress and Improved Sleep
Winter’s longer nights tend to promote improved sleep, which is necessary for the balancing of hormones. Better quality of sleep would enhance the conditions for ovulation and sperm production, whereas decreased stress improves overall fertility.

Pro Tip: Establish a bedtime routine, enjoy warm beverages like herbal tea, and keep your bedroom cozy to maximize the benefits of winter’s restful nights.

5. Chances of Seasonal Diseases and Weight gain
On the other hand, cold weather may have the impact of increasing the vulnerability of acquiring colds and flu, and might thus weaken the body for some time, along with infertility. Also, minimal movement, calorie-rich foods are the factors that lead to gaining weight, which impacts hormone levels.

Pro Tip: Light exercises like yoga or walking, maintain healthy weight, and keep in your diet immunity-boosting foods like turmeric milk and ginger tea.

Final Thoughts for Couples Trying to Conceive
Winter is indeed the perfect time to focus on one’s reproductive health. But the right approach—healthy eating, stress management, and leveraging nature’s hormonal benefits—can definitely make the most of it. Stay warm, stay hopeful, and remember that this is a journey unique to each couple.

Hearing loss in elderly

By: Dr. Rohit Udaya Prasad, Lead & Senior Consultant – ENT & Cochlear Implant Surgery, Aster RV Hospital

Hearing loss in elderly is an issue which is seen in almost every household in our country which can range from mild to severe – profound levels.

It’s generally the elephant in the room and is least expressed by the elderly and addressed by the family. Visual impairment has the immediate attention of the person who has it but hearing loss in elderly is addressed late or never. In our society hearing impaired elderly aren’t sympathized and assisted as much as you see with visually impaired people.

Hearing loss progressively leads to poor socializing skills where the elderly isolate themselves from day-to-day conversations and prefer solitude. Many a times while conversing with hearing impaired elderly we notice they smile when unable to have the clarity in a conversation or would reply differently. Day to day activities need listening spoken language and active conversations especially in the elderly as it’s one such activity which isn’t physically demanding.

This keeps them mentally engaged and helps to have a good memory with recent activities. Usually, the family of the hearing impaired find the conversations tasking and bring them for a hearing assessment. Some of the hearing impaired do visit on their own accord and get an assessment as they are more socially active and also professionally engaged.

Appropriate hearing evaluation with continuous engagement of the patient with hearing loss is needed to make them understand the nature of hearing loss and the possible solutions. Hearing solutions can range from as simple as a hearing aid to a cochlear implant surgery.

Cochlear implants in the geriatric age group is done in cases where they no more benefit with a hearing aid due to the severe/ profound nature of hearing loss. Providing the cochlear implant device via surgery to the elderly also has its challenges when they have other health issues. Optimizing the patient with a good multi-disciplinary approach prior to surgical intervention is done prior the cochlear implant surgery. Intervening at the right time without worrying about hearing assistance as a taboo is much needed in today’s society.

Dementia, depression is worsened due to hearing loss in elderly which can be tackled with simple hearing solutions at the right time.

Fortis Bannerghatta Road Removes Lemon-Sized Tumor with Expert Surgery

Bengaluru,1st April 2025 – A 54-year-old man from Anantapur, underwent a successful and complex surgical procedure at Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru, to remove a lemon-sized tumor. He was diagnosed with Pott’s Puffy Tumor, a rare and aggressive condition that involves an infection of the frontal sinus. Under the expert care of Dr Susheen Dutt, Senior Consultant – ENT, Cochlear Implant and Skull Base Surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore, along with Dr Abhishek S, Consultant – Otorhinolaryngology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore the patient underwent a complex surgical procedure and was discharged after a five-day hospital stay.

The patient, Sham (name changed), a resident of Anantapur, was experiencing a rapidly growing and extremely painful swelling on his forehead, which had expanded to the size of a lemon within just three and a half weeks. Initially, he noticed a gradual swelling between his eyebrows, which soon became intensely painful. Concerned about the progressive nature of the swelling, he sought medical attention in his hometown. After local consultations, he was referred to Fortis Hospital in Bengaluru for further evaluation and advanced treatment.

Upon arrival at Fortis Hospital, a thorough medical evaluation was conducted, including an MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging), to determine if the infection had spread to the brain. The results revealed that the swelling was pressing against the back wall of the frontal sinus, a sinus located in the forehead. While the infection had not yet reached the brain, it posed a significant risk due to the proximity of the sinus to the frontal lobe. Understanding the severity of the case, Dr. Susheen recommended a surgical approach to ensure precise treatment and effective resolution of the condition.

Giving details of the case, Dr Susheen Dutt, Senior Consultant – ENT, Cochlear Implant and Skull Base Surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore said, “We opted for a combined approach (open and endoscopic), making a precise incision above the forehead to gain better access and ensure complete removal of the infected tissue. We had to ensure that the infection did not breach the thin layer of tissue separating the sinus from the brain. We worked meticulously to clear the infection while safeguarding the brain.”

“In addition to removing the infection, the team performed a frontal sinus obliteration procedure to prevent any future infections. Fat was used to fill the sinus cavity, sealing it off completely. This procedure eliminates the need for further bone reconstruction, as the sinus will not reopen. Over time, the area will heal, and the patient will not require additional surgeries. This approach prevents recurrence and avoids the complications associated with bone reconstruction.”

Mr. Akshay Oleti, Business Head, Fortis Hospitals Bengaluru, said, “At Fortis Hospitals, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care through innovative treatments and personalized patient services. The successful outcome of this case highlights our dedication to addressing complex medical conditions with advanced technology and expert clinical intervention. We are proud to support our patients in their recovery journey and continue to raise the bar in healthcare excellence.”

Exercising in Summer Heat,It Could Be Risking Your Health

Mumbai – As temperatures soar to record highs each year, it is crucial to take extra precautions while exercising to prevent heat-related health issues. Whether training for police or military recruitment, hitting the gym, or striving for weight loss, failing to follow proper guidelines can have dangerous consequences. Many young individuals rigorously train in extreme heat for police and military recruitment. However, inadequate hydration and improper exercise routines can lead to severe health risks, including heatstroke and dehydration. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances in summer can lead to dizziness, fainting, and sudden drops in blood pressure. Overexertion in gyms, particularly heavy weightlifting beyond one’s capacity, can increase the risk of heart-related issues.

Commenting on this Mrinali Dwivedi, Consultant Nutritionist and Clinical Dietitian at Apex Group of Hospitals, Mumbai says,” With fitness trends on the rise, gyms remain crowded throughout the year. Many individuals continue intense cardio and weight training even in extreme summer heat. Without the right approach, this dedication can turn hazardous. Uncontrolled consumption of protein powders and supplements can put immense strain on the liver and kidneys. Rapid weight loss goals often drive people to over-exercise, putting unnecessary strain on muscles and increasing the risk of injuries. Overexertion can lead to muscle damage and even long-term health concerns.”

Mrinali Dwivedi further added, staying cool while exercising in summer is crucial. Avoid overtraining and ensure the body gets enough rest. Proper nutrition before and after workouts is essential. Prioritize natural protein sources and stay hydrated. Never ignore warning signs such as chest pain, dizziness, breathlessness, or a rapid heart rate during exercise. Continuing to work out despite these symptoms can be extremely dangerous.

Key Tips for Safe Summer Workouts

  • Start exercising early in the morning to avoid peak heat.
  • Stay well-hydrated throughout the day.
  • Wear lightweight and breathable clothing.
  • Avoid intense workouts between 12 PM and 4 PM.

Pre-Workout Nutrition for Safe Training

  • Opt for bananas, dry fruits, oats, or protein-rich food.
  • Maintain adequate hydration with water and electrolytes.
  • Avoid exercising on an empty stomach.

Apex Group of Hospitals is a trusted chain of healthcare facilities, managed and operated by expert medical professionals with over 25 years of experience. With a capacity of 350+ beds, Apex Hospitals is committed to providing high-quality healthcare services to the people of Mumbai and surrounding areas. Our hospitals are strategically located in Borivali, Kandivali, and Mulund, ensuring accessible and comprehensive medical care.