Coorg Policeman Treated for Flesh-Eating Infection at Fortis Bengaluru

Bangalore, 19 February 2025: Fortis Hospital Cunningham Road, Bengaluru, has successfully treated a 50-year-old police officer from Coorg, who was diagnosed with a severe diabetic foot infection complicated by necrotizing fasciitis (a rare and dangerous condition caused by flesh-eating bacteria). The patient, who had a history of heart issues and had undergone multiple cardiac procedure within the past month, benefited from an advanced surgical technique and specialized wound care. The patient’s limb was saved, and amputation was avoided because of the innovative procedure led by Dr. Santosh MP, Senior Consultant – General and Minimal Access Surgery at Fortis Hospital Cunningham Road, Bengaluru, along with Dr. Ramraj V N, Consultant, Surgical Gastroenterology, Fortis Hospital Cunningham Road, Bengaluru, and Dr. Yedin Chandra, Attending Consultant General Surgery, Fortis Hospital Cunningham Road, Bengaluru.

Patient Ravi (name changed) had been suffering from excruciating pain, fever, and swelling in his leg due to the diabetic foot infection. Despite undergoing multiple treatments, his condition deteriorated, and the infection spread to his joints and bones. Given his profession, which required him to retain full mobility, Ravi was determined to avoid amputation and sought treatment at Fortis Hospital Cunningham Road.

Upon admission, Ravi was diagnosed with diabetic foot complicated by necrotizing fasciitis, a life-threatening infection that rapidly damages soft tissue and can spread to bones. The infection’s swift progression posed a significant risk to both his life and limb. Dr. Santosh MP had recommended a comprehensive treatment plan that included surgeries to remove the dead tissue and use of antibiotic beads alongside IV antibiotics and vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) therapy—a new and innovative approach designed to promote faster healing while controlling the infection.

Speaking about the case, Dr. Santosh MP, Senior Consultant, General and minimal access surgery, Fortis Hospital Cunningham Road, Bengaluru, said, “This case was extremely challenging due to the extent the infection had spread, had already reached the joints and bones. We opted for a combination of antibiotic therapy and vacuum-assisted closure, which is an innovative technique for managing such severe infections. This approach allowed us to treat the infection effectively, minimize the need for further surgeries, and ultimately avoid amputation.”

Over the course of a month, Ravi underwent three surgeries, each aimed at addressing the infection, removing necrotic tissue, and promoting recovery. Following his final surgery, Ravi’s condition stabilised, and he was discharged in stable condition.

Mr. Chandrasekar R, Facility director, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, added, “At Fortis Hospital, we are committed to providing advanced, personalized care for even the most complex cases. The successful treatment of this severe diabetic foot infection through innovative techniques such as vacuum-assisted closure and antibiotic bead therapy highlights our ability to manage life-threatening conditions with the latest medical advancements. This case is a testament to our team’s expertise and dedication to delivering the best possible outcomes for our patients.”

Ocular Trauma A Growing Yet Preventable Cause of Vision Loss in India

By: Dr. Pallavi Joshi, Consultant – Cornea, Ocular Surface & Refractive Surgery, Sankara Eye Hospital, Bengaluru.

 

Loss of vision is a significant public health concern in India, affecting an estimated 50 million individuals annually. One of the leading yet often overlooked causes of visual impairment is ocular trauma, particularly among young individuals. This not only impacts their quality of life but also has far-reaching socio-economic consequences. However, on a positive note, approximately 1.2% of vision impairment cases are due to avoidable blindness, highlighting the crucial role of timely medical intervention and preventive measures.

Understanding Ocular Trauma and Its Causes

Ocular trauma refers to any injury affecting the eye, including damage to the cornea, conjunctiva, eyelids, retina, or optic nerve. Each year, over two million cases of ocular trauma are reported in India, with 40,000 resulting in permanent vision loss. These injuries are broadly classified into two categories:

  • Open-globe injuries – Full-thickness wounds of the eye caused by sharp objects or blunt force trauma leading to ruptures.
  • Closed-globe injuries – Partial-thickness wounds resulting from blunt force impact or sharp objects affecting the cornea or sclera.

The most common forms of ocular trauma include blunt injuries, chemical burns, UV exposure-related burns, and orbital fractures. These injuries frequently occur due to workplace accidents, sports activities, assaults, and road accidents. Individuals working in high-risk environments, such as agricultural fields, construction sites, and chemical factories, are particularly vulnerable due to inadequate protective gear and poor safety awareness.

The Socio-Economic Impact of Ocular Trauma

Ocular trauma is more prevalent among young males and children, with the severity and causes varying based on socio-economic status. Farmers, laborers, industrial workers, and students are the most commonly affected groups. In many cases, a lack of awareness and access to affordable protective gear increases the risk of severe injury. Without immediate medical attention, ocular trauma can lead to irreversible vision loss, orbital deformities, and secondary complications such as infections and glaucoma. Beyond physical consequences, the condition imposes an emotional and financial burden on affected individuals and their families, often leading to a decline in productivity and quality of life.

“Avoid rubbing or applying pressure to an injured eye. Never attempt to remove foreign objects or self-medicate without professional guidance. Rinsing the eye to remove debris or chemicals and applying a cold compress can help reduce the impact before seeking medical attention. Immediate intervention is critical in preventing long-term damage, as even minor injuries can lead to severe complications if left untreated,” emphasizes Dr. Pallavi Joshi, Consultant – Cornea, Ocular Surface & Refractive Surgery, Sankara Eye Hospital, Bengaluru.

Preventive Measures to Reduce Ocular Trauma Cases

  • Protective eyewear – Wearing safety goggles or protective glasses in hazardous workplaces and while riding can significantly lower the risk of eye injuries.
  • Workplace safety education – Training workers on the importance of protective gear and the potential dangers of exposure to chemicals, sharp objects, and UV equipment.
  • Sports safety – Using polycarbonate helmets and face shields to prevent eye injuries during sports activities.
  • Childproofing homes – Eliminating sharp and blunt objects in households to reduce the risk of ocular trauma in children.
  • Youth awareness programs – Educating young individuals on first-aid responses for eye injuries to minimize long-term damage.

The Way Forward

Despite its significant impact, ocular trauma remains an often-neglected health issue in India. A major contributor to this problem is the widespread lack of awareness about protective measures and the importance of timely medical intervention. By promoting proactive eye safety measures and ensuring access to quality healthcare, we can work toward reducing preventable vision loss. A future where ocular trauma-related blindness is a rarity rather than a common occurrence is within reach—one step at a time.