In an inspiring demonstration of medical expertise and compassionate care, Dr. Nitu Mundhra, Consultant Neonatologist & Pediatrician at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, led a team that successfully revived a premature baby born at 25 weeks gestation. The infant, diagnosed with Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC), received prompt and comprehensive treatment and was discharged weighing 1.8 kg. Today, the baby is thriving and meeting developmental milestones appropriate for his age.

Ms. Heena Mishra (name changed), a 34-year-old homemaker, had been trying to conceive for ten years before achieving pregnancy through IVF. Her pregnancy was complicated by diabetes mellitus and anemia, and at 25 weeks, she experienced a premature rupture of membranes, necessitating an emergency delivery.

Dr. Mundhra, alongside Dr. Sagar Mavale and the nursing staff, retrieved the baby from the referring hospital. The infant, born weighing just 800 grams, cried immediately after birth but required immediate ventilation due to severe respiratory distress. The team stabilized the newborn and transported him to Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, ensuring continuous warmth and ventilation throughout the journey.

Upon arrival at the hospital, the baby received comprehensive care at Miracle (Wockhardt NICU), including medication for lung maturation and protection against infections and intraventricular hemorrhage. Despite developing necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) at four weeks, a serious gastrointestinal condition common in premature infants, the team managed the condition with total parenteral nutrition, antibiotics, and supportive treatment. After two weeks, the baby resumed feeding and demonstrated positive growth.

After 80 days in the NICU, the baby was discharged, weighing 1.8 kg, with normal neurological development and all tests within normal limits. Now five months old, the baby continues to thrive and achieve developmental milestones, bringing immense joy to the parents.

Dr. Mundhra expressed her satisfaction, stating, "Treating a 25-week baby is extremely challenging, with new complications arising daily. I am grateful to our entire team, including neonatal fellows (Dr. Sagar and Dr. Shishir), Pediatric Registrars, Nurses, respiratory therapists, and physiotherapists, for their dedication. The smile on the parents' faces when we handed over their healthy baby is the greatest reward for our efforts."

Dr. Pankaj Dhamija, Centre Head at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, added, “Wockhardt Hospitals remains committed to providing exceptional neonatal care and ensuring the best outcomes for the tiniest and most vulnerable patients. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to improving patient outcomes and advancing medical excellence.”

Ms. Heena Mishra, the baby's mother, shared, “The arrival of our first child brought us immense joy, but it was short-lived due to complications faced by our premature baby. Fortunately, our little one is now thriving and reaching developmental milestones appropriate for his age. We thank the team of expert doctors at Wockhardt Hospitals who saved our baby’s life.”