Did VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital Just Achieve a Historic Milestone in Paediatric Renal Transplant?
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Synopsis
In a groundbreaking achievement, VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital has successfully conducted India's first paediatric renal transplant in a government hospital. This milestone not only highlights the hospital's commitment to exceptional healthcare but also brings hope to families struggling with pediatric kidney diseases. Learn more about this life-changing surgery and its significance.
Key Takeaways
- VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital achieved the first paediatric renal transplant in a central government facility.
- The surgery was performed on an 11-year-old boy who had been on dialysis.
- The transplant utilized a kidney donated by the boy's mother.
- Post-surgery, the child is recovering well and is expected to be discharged soon.
- The hospital remains committed to offering free healthcare to all patients.
New Delhi, Nov 25 (NationPress) - VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital proudly reported a remarkable achievement on Tuesday, successfully conducting the very first paediatric renal transplant on an 11-year-old boy who was on regular dialysis.
According to a statement from the hospital, this groundbreaking procedure not only marks a significant milestone for Safdarjung Hospital but also represents the first paediatric renal transplant performed in any central government hospital.
The surgery was carried out on an 11-year-old patient suffering from end-stage kidney disease due to a rare condition known as bilateral hypodysplastic kidneys, where both kidneys are underdeveloped.
The boy, who comes from Sultanpur in Uttar Pradesh, had his 35-year-old mother as the donor.
“The diagnosis of his condition occurred about one and a half years ago when he was brought to the paediatrics department at Safdarjung Hospital in a critical state and required resuscitation after experiencing a cardiac arrest,” stated Dr. Shobha Sharma, Director Professor and Incharge of Paediatric Nephrology, who led the surgical team.
At that time, kidney failure was confirmed, and since then, the child had been receiving care from the paediatric nephrology division and undergoing regular dialysis.
“Conducting a paediatric kidney transplant is a challenging surgical procedure that differs from adult transplants in several ways, including the necessity to connect the donor kidney to larger vessels in the recipient and ensuring adequate space for the adult kidney within the child's body,” explained Dr. Pawan Vasudeva, Director Professor and Head of Urology and Renal Transplant, who headed the surgical team.
“The transplanted kidney has adapted well, with kidney function returning to normal,” Dr. Vasudeva reported.
He further mentioned that the child has recovered well, is no longer on dialysis, and is expected to be discharged soon.
“Safdarjung Hospital is dedicated to offering high-quality healthcare at no cost to all citizens, without discrimination,” said Dr. Sandeep Bansal, Director at VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital.
He expressed satisfaction to see this child, whose father works as a daily wage laborer, now free from dialysis and in excellent health.
“For the family, this is a dream realized, as they had lost hope, knowing that such a procedure in the private sector could cost approximately 1.5 million rupees,” Dr. Bansal added.
Dr. Charu Bamba, Medical Superintendent, confirmed that the hospital will provide the necessary immunosuppressive medications, which can be quite expensive and are essential for kidney transplant patients, free of charge.
Point of View
The successful paediatric renal transplant at VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital is a testament to the advancements in healthcare in India. This achievement underscores the importance of accessible medical services for all, especially for vulnerable populations such as children. It also emphasizes the role of government hospitals in providing high-quality care at no cost, proving that hope and healing can be available to all families, regardless of their financial status.
NationPress
25/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of this paediatric renal transplant?
This transplant marks a historic first for VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital, making it the first paediatric renal transplant performed in any central government hospital, showcasing advancements in healthcare access.
Who was the donor for the transplant?
The donor for the transplant was the boy's 35-year-old mother, who provided a kidney to help save her son's life.
What challenges are involved in paediatric kidney transplants?
Paediatric kidney transplants present unique challenges, such as the need to connect the donor kidney to larger vessels in the child and ensuring adequate space for the adult kidney within a smaller body.
How is the child recovering after the transplant?
The child has shown excellent recovery, is off dialysis, and is expected to be discharged soon, indicating a successful transplant outcome.
Will the hospital provide follow-up care?
Yes, VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital will provide necessary immunosuppressive medications free of cost to ensure the child's long-term health and kidney function.
