The pediatric ward at Vadodara's Sir Sayajirao General Hospital (SSGH) recently witnessed scenes of immense joy and celebration. The reason was the remarkable recovery and discharge of a baby girl who fought and defeated tetanus after a grueling three-month-long battle for her life.
A Frightening Turn After a Normal Birth
The infant was born to Kavita Pasadiya at the government hospital in Devgadh Baria, located in the Dahod district, in the early hours of September 8. Following a standard 48-hour observation period where the baby fed well and showed no complications, both mother and daughter were discharged home in good health.
However, the situation took a terrifying turn just two days later. The newborn suddenly refused to feed and began exhibiting abnormal movements, her body turning stiff. Alarmed, her family rushed her back to the hospital. As her condition showed no signs of improvement, she was urgently referred to the advanced care facilities at Sir Sayajirao General Hospital (SSGH) in Vadodara on September 17.
A Grueling Medical Battle for Survival
At SSGH, doctors diagnosed her with tetanus, a serious bacterial infection affecting the nervous system. A critical symptom was lockjaw (trismus), severely restricting her ability to breathe. To secure her airway, doctors performed a tracheostomy on September 19 and placed her on a ventilator.
Her fight was intense. The baby remained dependent on the ventilator for 15 arduous days. Medical teams administered a rigorous regimen of medications to control severe muscle spasms, stiffness, and other debilitating symptoms of the disease. Targeted antibiotics were also given based on culture sensitivity test results to combat the infection.
Even after coming off the ventilator, her journey was far from over. She required supplemental oxygen for approximately three more weeks as her tiny body continued to heal. A major milestone was reached on December 12, when the tracheostomy tube was finally removed after she consistently maintained healthy oxygen saturation levels on her own.
A Father's Devotion and a Triumphant Homecoming
The little warrior's medical marathon spanned from when she was just 10 days old until her discharge at 94 days old. Throughout this entire hospitalization, her father, Bharat Pasadiya, remained steadfastly by her side. With an older daughter to care for at home, the mother, Kavita, had to stay back, making Bharat's unwavering presence at SSGH crucial for both emotional support and care coordination.
The successful treatment and discharge of the baby girl stand as a powerful testament to the relentless efforts of the SSGH pediatric department, the resilience of a newborn, and the strength of a family's love. It highlights the critical importance of neonatal intensive care and timely medical intervention in overcoming life-threatening conditions like tetanus.
