Doctors at KIMS Hospital, Gachibowli, successfully saved the life of a baby born prematurely at just seven months using an advanced, non-surgical procedure. The case was led by Dr. Bhavani Deepti, Consultant Neonatologist, and Dr. Sudeep Varma, Consultant Pediatric Cardiologist.
Premature Birth and Complications
As per the press release, the baby, born to a couple from Tolichowki, Hyderabad, arrived at only seven months of gestation and was immediately admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The infant remained in intensive care for 97 days due to multiple complications. During this time, the baby developed Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)—a condition in which a blood vessel that should close after birth remains open, causing excess blood flow to the lungs and straining the heart.
Understanding PDA in Preterm Infants
Normally, the ductus arteriosus closes within 7–10 days of birth. In premature babies, however, it often remains open. Around 80% of preterm infants suffer from PDA, which can lead to severe respiratory and cardiac problems, often requiring ventilator support.
Doctors first attempt to treat PDA with medication. If it fails, surgery or a device closure becomes necessary. If untreated, the condition can be life-threatening.
Choosing a Safer Alternative to Surgery
Traditionally, PDA closure required open-chest surgery. However, because the baby weighed just 600 grams and had additional health risks, surgery was ruled out as too dangerous. The team instead opted for a minimally invasive device closure procedure performed through the leg artery.
Using the Piccolo Device for PDA Closure
Doctors used the Piccolo device, a highly advanced closure device with a diameter of just 1.2 mm. The team inserted the device through the leg artery and successfully closed the PDA without the need for surgery.
Following the procedure, the baby’s heart and lung function improved significantly. The child is now India’s lightest baby to undergo this type of procedure.
Steady Recovery and Discharge
After the procedure, NICU doctors, including Dr. Bhavani Deepti and Dr. Sindhu Maru, continued to monitor the baby closely.
“This device is a game-changer in treating PDA without surgery,” said Dr. Bhavani Deepti and Dr. Sudeep Varma. “Once the PDA was closed, the baby started feeding and steadily gained weight. We discharged him when he reached 2.45 kg.”