Premature baby in Hyderabad undergoes life-saving surgery for rare condition

Hyderabad: A premature infant born at 32 weeks, weighing just 2 kg, underwent a complex dual surgery in Hyderabad to treat a rare condition called posterior urethral valves (PUV).

The child, born to a Hyderabad-based businessman, was diagnosed with PUV, a condition in which extra tissue in baby boys blocks or narrows the flow of urine from the bladder through the urethra, potentially leading to kidney damage.

Condition and Challenges

PUV is typically detected during pregnancy or shortly after birth and requires prompt medical intervention to prevent long-term damage. The condition can also lead to reduced amniotic fluid levels, contributing to premature delivery, as was the case with this infant.

Surgical Intervention

Given the seriousness of the condition, the medical team at AINU led by Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran, Consultant Paediatric Urologist, decided to perform both circumcision and valve fulguration in a single surgical session.

This strategy was intended to minimize the infant's exposure to anaesthesia and reduce associated risks.

The surgical team faced significant challenges due to the patient's small size and fragility. Special considerations were necessary for precise anaesthesia management, strict infection control, and the use of specially designed instruments. The surgery began with circumcision, followed by valve fulguration, which involved using endoscopic techniques to remove the obstructive tissue in the urethra, allowing the baby to urinate normally and preventing kidney damage.

Postoperative Care

The two-hour surgery was successful, and the infant was transferred to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for close monitoring.

The medical staff carefully oversaw the infant's recovery, ensuring proper care and attention to prevent complications.

Expert Opinions

Reflecting on the success of the procedure, Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran said, "This successful surgery highlights our dedication to providing advanced medical care, even for our youngest patients. It showcases our expertise in Pediatric urology care, providing vital support and treatment for the most vulnerable patients."

The anaesthesia team, led by Dr. Nityanand, along with the Paediatrics, NICU, and Paediatric nephrology teams, played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth recovery of the child.

Importance of Antenatal Care

The case also highlights the importance of antenatal visits to a pediatric urologist when foetal kidney swelling is detected during pregnancy.

This proactive approach, common in advanced nations like the USA and the UK, allows for early evaluation and planning for the baby’s health post-birth, potentially preventing severe complication.