AIIMS-Patna Achieves Milestone with First Bariatric Surgery
In a significant advancement for public healthcare in Bihar, AIIMS-Patna has successfully performed its inaugural bariatric surgery, introducing this advanced metabolic weight-loss procedure to the government healthcare system in the state. This landmark operation took place on Saturday, targeting a 24-year-old female patient who weighed 110 kilograms and had a body mass index (BMI) exceeding 42. The patient also presented with polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) and infertility issues, highlighting the complex health challenges addressed by this surgical intervention.
Expert Surgical and Anaesthesia Teams Ensure Success
The surgical procedure was led by a skilled team comprising Dr Utpal, Dr Basant, and Dr Kunal, under the mentorship of Dr Nirupam Sinha from NSMCH, Bihta. Given the high-risk profile of bariatric patients, which includes difficult airway management and reduced lung compliance, the department of anaesthesiology and critical care played a crucial role. This team, led by Dr Neeraj and overseen by department head Dr Umesh Bhadani, meticulously managed both perioperative and intraoperative care to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes.
Strategic Expansion to Combat Lifestyle Diseases
Executive director Brig Dr Raju Agarwal emphasized that the introduction of bariatric services represents a strategic expansion aimed at tackling the increasing burden of lifestyle diseases through the public healthcare system. By offering this super-speciality service, AIIMS-Patna aims to provide an affordable alternative to costly private sector treatments for conditions such as morbid obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance accessibility and quality of care for residents in Bihar and surrounding regions.
Future Plans for a Comprehensive Bariatric Programme
Building on this initial success, AIIMS-Patna plans to establish a structured bariatric programme that integrates multiple facets of patient care. This comprehensive initiative will include pre-operative counselling, nutritional management, and psychological evaluation, coupled with long-term follow-up care. The goal is to ensure sustained metabolic health outcomes, promoting overall well-being and preventing chronic illnesses among patients in the region.
Global Recognition and Health Benefits of Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is globally acknowledged as a metabolic intervention that goes beyond mere weight reduction. It is effective in reversing or significantly improving obesity-related conditions, thereby reducing the risk of diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver, sleep apnea, and degenerative joint disorders. For young patients, early intervention through such surgeries can prevent decades of chronic illness, enhance mobility, and substantially improve quality of life, offering a proactive approach to health management.
This development at AIIMS-Patna marks a pivotal step forward in addressing public health challenges in Bihar, leveraging advanced medical techniques to foster better health outcomes and affordability in healthcare services.
