Dr. Nitu Mundhra, Consultant Neonatologist and Pediatrician at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, led a team that effectively revived a premature baby born at 25 weeks gestation. The infant, diagnosed with Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC), received prompt treatment and was discharged weighing 1.8 kg. Presently, the baby is thriving and meeting developmental milestones appropriate for his age.
The Patient, a 34-year-old homemaker, had been trying to conceive for ten years before successfully achieving pregnancy through IVF. Her pregnancy was complicated by diabetes mellitus and anemia, and at 25 weeks, she experienced premature rupture of membranes, necessitating an emergency delivery.
Dr. Nitu Mundhra, Consultant Neonatologist and Pediatrician at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, led a team including Dr. Sagar Mavale and nursing staff to retrieve the baby from the referring hospital. The baby, born weighing just 800 grams, cried immediately after birth but required immediate ventilation due to severe respiratory distress. The team expertly stabilized the newborn and transported him to Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, ensuring continuous warmth and ventilation throughout the journey.
Upon arrival at the hospital, the baby received comprehensive care at Miracle (Wockhardt NICU) including medication for lung maturation and protection against infections and intraventricular hemorrhage. Despite developing necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) at four weeks, a serious gastrointestinal condition common in premature infants, the team managed the condition with total parenteral nutrition, antibiotics, and supportive treatment. After two weeks, the baby resumed feeding and demonstrated positive growth.
After 80 days in the NICU, the baby was discharged, weighing 1.8 kg, with normal neurological development and all tests within normal limits. The baby, now five months old, continues to thrive and achieve developmental milestones, bringing immense joy to the parents.
Dr. Nitu Mundhra stated, “Treating a 25-week baby is extremely challenging, with new complications arising daily. I am grateful to our entire team, including neonatal fellows (Dr. Sagar and Dr. Shishir), Pediatric Registrars, Nurses, respiratory therapists, and physiotherapists, for their dedication. The smile on the parents’ faces when we handed over their healthy baby is the greatest reward for our efforts”.
Dr. Nitu Mundhra, Consultant Neonatologist and Pediatrician.