AIIMS-Jodhpur Achieves Medical Milestone with Dual Cochlear Implant on Infant
In a groundbreaking medical achievement, the ENT department at AIIMS-Jodhpur has successfully performed cochlear implant surgery in both ears of a nine-month-old infant during a single surgical session. This procedure is believed to be the first-of-its-kind at any government healthcare institution in India for a patient of such a young age.
Early Detection and Diagnosis
The infant, born in April 2025 at MDM Hospital, was brought to AIIMS-Jodhpur after her parents observed that she was not responding to sounds. Following a thorough evaluation by ENT specialist Dr. Amit Goyal, the child was diagnosed with profound hearing loss in both ears. Medical professionals emphasized the importance of early intervention, opting for surgery to maximize future outcomes.
Dr. Amit Goyal stated, "We recognized that this would be a highly challenging surgery, but it also presented a unique opportunity to profoundly enhance the child's quality of life and future development."
Overcoming Surgical Challenges
The surgery posed significant medical hurdles due to the infant's age. Specialists highlighted several critical factors:
- Low blood volume requiring precise management
- Extremely soft skull bones necessitating delicate handling
- Very delicate skin increasing surgical complexity
Despite these challenges, the surgical team, led by Dr. Amit Goyal and Dr. Vidhu Sharma, successfully completed the cochlear implant procedure. Dr. Priyanka Sethi expertly managed the anesthesia throughout the operation.
Post-Surgery Rehabilitation and Institutional Support
Following the successful surgery, the infant was discharged from the hospital, and the rehabilitation process has now commenced to ensure a healthy start to life. Dr. Govardhan Datt Puri, Executive Director of AIIMS-Jodhpur, congratulated the medical team and emphasized the importance of early screening.
Dr. Puri remarked, "Hearing screening at birth followed by timely cochlear implant surgery, when necessary, represents the most effective pathway to rehabilitate such children into normal, productive lives."
Significance for Healthcare and Future Implications
This medical achievement carries profound significance:
- It provides life-changing benefits for the child and her family
- It demonstrates the growing capabilities of government healthcare services in India
- It showcases AIIMS-Jodhpur's comprehensive facilities for managing complex pediatric cases
The successful surgery serves as a powerful testament to what can be achieved when medical professionals work with determination and expertise. This case establishes an inspiring precedent for other children with hearing impairments, highlighting that timely medical intervention can transform seemingly impossible situations into opportunities for normal development and growth.
AIIMS-Jodhpur's accomplishment not only paves the way for brighter futures for affected children but also reinforces the institution's position as a leader in advanced medical care within India's public healthcare system.
