Father Muller Hospital's Plastic Surgery Team Restores NRI's Arm After Severe Chemical Burns in Dubai
The plastic surgery department at Father Muller Medical College Hospital in Mangaluru has achieved a significant medical success by treating and fully restoring the forearm of a 58-year-old Non-Resident Indian (NRI). The patient sustained severe chemical burns following an accidental sulphuric acid spillage at his workplace in Dubai, requiring urgent and specialized medical intervention.
Urgent Care for Extensive Forearm Injuries
The NRI arrived at the hospital with deep and extensive forearm injuries that posed a serious threat to limb functionality. The plastic surgery team immediately initiated a comprehensive treatment plan to salvage the arm and restore its functional use. This involved a series of advanced, staged procedures tailored to the patient's critical condition.
The treatment protocol included repeated surgical debridements to remove damaged tissue, application of VAC (vacuum-assisted closure) dressings to promote healing, and definitive skin grafting to cover the wounds. These meticulous steps were crucial in preventing infection and ensuring optimal recovery.
Expert Medical Team Behind the Success
The successful outcome was driven by a dedicated team of medical professionals. The plastic surgery department was led by professors and consultant plastic surgeons Dr Aravind L Rao, Dr Satish Bhat, Dr Akanksha Rajpoot, and Dr Karthik Aithal. They were supported by residents Dr Manasa, Dr Ragavi, Dr Chetna, and Dr Aheesh, who played vital roles in patient care.
Anaesthesia support was provided by Dr Vishma, an associate professor, Dr Karthik, an assistant professor, along with Dr Synol, Dr Amit, and residents from the department of Anaesthesia. Their expertise ensured the patient's safety and comfort during the complex surgical procedures.
Role of the Father Muller Rotary Skin Bank
In addition to the surgical expertise, the plastic surgery department manages the Father Muller Rotary Skin Bank, which provides preserved donor skin for patients with major burns and traumatic skin loss. Such donations are essential for improving healing outcomes and serve as a lifeline for individuals with severe burn injuries.
A hospital release emphasized that access to donor skin significantly enhances recovery rates, making it a critical resource in burn care. This case highlights the importance of specialized facilities and collaborative efforts in achieving successful medical outcomes for complex injuries.
