In a remarkable case, doctors at HCMCT Manipal Hospital, Dwarka, saved the life of a five-day-old newborn diagnosed with congenital hydrocephalus, a rare condition in which excess fluid builds up in the brain.
The condition was detected during the last trimester of pregnancy. An ultrasound raised concerns, following which doctors advised a fetal MRI to understand the extent of the problem. The parents were counselled and a treatment plan was prepared even before the child was born. Doctors believe it was the early detection that proved crucial.
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Dr Anurag Saxena, Cluster Head - Delhi NCR, Neurosurgery, said, “In this case, the biggest advantage was the early diagnosis during pregnancy, which allowed us to plan the surgery well in advance. Performing neurosurgery in a newborn is always challenging due to the delicate anatomy, very low circulating blood volume, risks of hypothermia, and the complexities of anaesthesia. However, timely intervention and a multidisciplinary team helped us achieve a positive outcome.”
About the condition:
To explain the condition elaborately, congenital hydrocephalus leads to enlargement of the baby’s head due to increased pressure inside the skull. If not treated in time, it can cause brain damage, developmental delays, seizures and can even become life-threatening.
Soon after birth, the baby was admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and kept under close observation. A specialised neurosurgical procedure was performed to insert a programmable ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt. The device helps drain excess fluid from the brain to the abdomen, relieving pressure.
“Following surgery, the baby showed a smooth and stable recovery in the NICU, with no post-operative complications," said Dr Meenu Grewal, Consultant – Neonatologist. "Early intervention not only ensured a successful surgical outcome but also significantly reduced the risk of long-term complications, giving the child a strong foundation for healthy neurological development.”
The procedure was carried out by a multidisciplinary team led by Dr Anurag Saxena, along with Dr Tejasvi Singh and Dr Ankit Kaura. The neuro-anaesthesia team played a crucial role in the safe management of anaesthesia and the child’s smooth recovery. Post-natal ICU care was expertly handled by ensuring comprehensive and continuous support for the newborn.