Lilavati Hospital & Spinal Bifida Foundations Launch Fetal Surgery Program with Medical University of Silesia, Poland

 

Mumbai: Addressing the demand for fetal intervention and surgery, which affects approximately 5 in 5,000 live births, has become increasingly urgent. Conditions like Spina Bifida, large neck masses, lower urinary tract obstructions (LUTO), and certain tumors can significantly hinder fetal development, necessitating timely intervention to prevent further harm. In response to this growing need, 'Lilavati Hospital', in collaboration with the 'Spina Bifida Foundation', has joined hands with Poland’s 'Medical University of Silesia' to establish a fetal surgery department. This pioneering collaboration aims to make fetal surgery a primary clinical option for intrauterine correction, thus significantly improving outcomes for affected infants.

To raise awareness about the significance of fetal surgery in India, the three-day ‘Fetal Surgery And Urinary Incontinence Surgery Twin Conference’ (FSUI 2024) is being held at The Trident Hotel, Nariman Point. This conference serves as a platform for leading experts, practitioners, and researchers from around the world to convene and discuss various aspects of fetal surgery and its advancement in India. Notable speakers include Dr. Santosh Karmarkar, Organising Chairman of FSUI Conference 2024 and Pediatric Surgeon at Lilavati Hospital, Dr. Agnieszka Pastuszka, Fetal Surgeon from Poland, and Dr. Tandulwadkar, President-Elect of FOGSI.

Fetal surgery involves operating on the fetus during pregnancy to improve long-term outcomes for children with birth defects. Lack of intervention can lead to complications, disabilities, or even death. By addressing conditions such as Spina Bifida and urinary tract obstructions in utero, fetal surgery mitigates the risk of irreversible damage to developing organs, offering a brighter future for affected infants.

Dr. Santosh Karmarkar, Senior Consultant Pediatric Surgeon at Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, emphasized the significance of fetal surgery, stating, “Fetal surgery represents a significant advancement in prenatal healthcare, enabling early intervention to prevent long-term complications for unborn infants. Our partnership with Poland’s Medical University of Silesia reaffirms our dedication to enhancing fetal surgical techniques and improving patient outcomes. Through this collaboration, we aim to pioneer innovative approaches to fetal surgery, ensuring that expectant parents have access to the most advanced and effective treatments for their unborn babies. This joint effort underscores our commitment to pushing the boundaries of medical excellence and improving the lives of both mothers and infants”.

The ‘FSUI 2024’ conference will feature discussions on the latest surgical developments, techniques, and debates in the field of fetal surgery, with top fetal surgeons from Europe and the USA sharing their expertise. Topics such as continence surgery techniques and intricate surgical procedures will be explored through intensive discussions and specially curated videos. The conference will be inaugurated by Mr. Prashant Mehta – Trustee, LILAVATI KIRTILAL MEHTA MEDICAL TRUST.

Dr. Niraj Uttamani, Chief Operating Officer at Lilavati Hospital & Research Centre, Bandra, stated, “Lilavati Hospital has consistently led the way in advancing patient care and medical innovations. This conference symbolizes a beacon of hope for parents, emphasizing the critical role of early intervention and specialized care for children with birth defects. The establishment of the forthcoming fetal surgery department will empower parents to advocate for their child's health and well-being, arming them with the necessary knowledge and resources to provide optimal care even before birth.

Dr. Agnieszka Pastuszka, representing Poland, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, "We are thrilled to partner with Lilavati Hospital to elevate the standard of fetal surgery in India. This conference presents a unique opportunity to exchange knowledge, foster collaboration, and shape the future of fetal surgery."

Mr. Rohit Shelatkar, Director of Meyer Vitabiotics, expressed his commitment to advancing healthcare in India through collaborations with Lilavati Hospital and the Spina Bifida Foundation. He looks forward to contributing to innovative initiatives that will enhance the healthcare sector in the future.

‘FSUI 2024’ promises to be a transformative event, driving innovation, and setting new standards for fetal surgical care in India.