Mangaluru:  Father Muller Medical College (FMMC) has achieved a medical milestone by successfully performing the first-ever intrauterine intervention for a placental tumor in Dakshina Kannada. The complex procedure, carried out in May 2024, involved a 22-year-old primigravida at 27 weeks of pregnancy. The patient, referred by senior gynecologist Dr. Latha Sharma, was managed by Dr. Prathima Prabhu, a specialist in high-risk pregnancy and fetal medicine at FMMC Hospital (FMMCH).

The multidisciplinary team, including Dr. Prathima Prabhu and senior consultant in fetal medicine Dr. Muralidhar G K, discovered fetal edema and signs of fetal heart failure. Interventional radiologists Dr. Lenon D’Souza and Dr. Mandeep Sagar devised an embolization plan to block the tumor's blood supply, while anesthesiologist Dr. Ananth Somayaji ensured precise ultrasound-guided treatment. An additional amnioreduction procedure was performed to drain excess amniotic fluid and reduce the risk of preterm labor.

Post-intervention, Dr. Prathima Prabhu managed the patient’s care, monitoring the pregnancy for another one and a half months. At eight months, the patient returned with abdominal pain and premature contractions. Despite the difficulties, Dr. Prabhu successfully conducted a normal vaginal delivery, resulting in the birth of a healthy 1.4kg baby.

The preterm baby received exceptional care in FMMC’s Level 3 NICU, one of the best in the region, under the guidance of neonatologist Dr. Praveen Nayak K. The baby was treated for all newborn complications and discharged in healthy condition along with the mother after a few days.

This ground breaking procedure and subsequent care highlight the expertise and dedication of FMMC’s high-risk pregnancy team. The constant follow-up and meticulous management demonstrate the hospital's commitment to patient care. The successful outcome underscores FMMC’s position as a leader in advanced medical treatments and exceptional neonatal care.

Picture: (Left to right)

Dr Mandeep Sagar G T, Dr Lenon Jason Dsouza  (Interventional Radiologists), Dr Prathima Prabhu (High Risk pregnancy specialist and Paediatrician), Dr Praveen Nayak K (Neonatologist, High Risk - Well baby Specialist, Paediatrician), Dr Muralidhar G K (Radio Diagnosis), Dr. Kelvin Pais, MDS