Archive for 2025

Is Spine Surgery Safe? Here’s What You Need to Know

Monday, September 8th, 2025

Back pain is one of the most common health concerns worldwide. Studies suggest that nearly 80% of adults will experience back pain at some point in their lives. For some, the pain is short-lived, but for others, it becomes persistent, severely affecting quality of life. When medications, rest, physiotherapy, and lifestyle changes fail to provide relief, spine surgery might be the only option recommended by doctors. For many patients, the very thought of surgery around the spinal cord creates fear and anxiety. Patients often ask: Is spine surgery really safe? Is it painful?” However, you can be rest assured, you are in safe hands. Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital is reputed as one of the best spine surgery hospital in Mumbai and offers revolutionary, efficient, and safe surgical options.

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What is a Spinal Surgery?

Spinal surgery is a specialized surgery to correct issues of the spine, be it disc-related, vertebrae-related, or nerve-related. It can be done to alleviate pain, improve mobility, or avoid further damage when non-surgical treatments fail.

Some of the most common conditions for which spine surgery can be performed include:

  • Herniated discs compressing nerves
  • Spinal stenosis (spinal canal narrowing)
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Spinal fractures caused by trauma or osteoporosis
  • Scoliosis and posture, and functional deformities

Who Needs Spine Surgery?

Not all back pain patients need surgery. Most conditions, in fact, do respond to non-surgical treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or injection. Nevertheless, surgery can be suggested if:

  • Pain continues after months of conservative management
  • Nerve compression results in numbness, weakness, or loss of bladder/bowel function
  • Structural deformities pose long-term mobility issues
  • Injuries like fractures compromise spinal stability

Your doctor will carefully balance the risks and benefits prior to recommending surgery.

Understanding Spine Surgery

Modern spine surgery has come a long way. Minimally invasive techniques, advanced imaging, and robotic-assisted procedures have significantly improved safety and recovery outcomes. Patients undergoing surgery today often experience:

  • Smaller incisions
  • Reduced blood loss
  • Shorter hospital stays
  • Faster rehabilitation

These advancements have positioned India as a destination for quality spine care, with several centres recognized among the best spine surgery hospitals in India.

Benefits of Spine Surgery

When performed for the right reasons, spine surgery can be life-changing. Some key benefits include:

  • It can provide pain relief making your daily life comfortable.
  • It improves the patient’s mobility.
  • Reduced pain helps give patients a better quality of life.
  • Timely intervention can prevent worsening the condition.
  • It helps patients stay active.
  • Many patients no longer require long-term painkillers after surgery.

Risks of Spine Surgery

Like any surgical procedure, spine surgery carries risks. Understanding them helps patients make informed decisions. Potential complications include:

  • Infection during or after a surgery
  • Nerve damage leading to numbness or weakness
  • Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
  • Implant or hardware issues
  • Persistent pain despite surgery
  • Rare complications like dural tears or lung problems

Medical statistics suggest that severe complications such as paralysis are extremely rare. According to one large study, the mortality rate for lumbar spine surgery was only 0.13% a reminder that while no surgery is risk-free, spine surgery today is much safer than most people believe due to advances in the medical world.

Is Spine Surgery Really That Risky?

This misconception has been going on for years. Just like any other medical surgery, this surgery also has inherent risks. However, the likelihood of catastrophic complications in spine surgery is very low. Here are some key factors that influence the success and safety of a spine surgery:

  • The patient’s health at the time of the surgery
  • The specific condition being treated
  • Any existing health conditions
  • The expertise of the surgeon
  • Post-operative care and rehabilitation

Patients should openly discuss their concerns with their doctor to understand both the potential benefits and risks in their unique case.

While risks exist, they are generally low when the surgery is performed by an experienced specialist at a reputable spine surgery hospital equipped with advanced technology and infrastructure. For those considering surgery, a detailed conversation with a spine specialist can help set realistic expectations and address individual queries.

Spine Surgery at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Are you or someone you know suffering from a spine disorder? You must seek specialist medical advice at the earliest to understand your situation and seek appropriate care. Do not delay in seeking medical care, as it can worsen the situation. At our Centre for Bone & Joint,  spine surgeries are performed using advanced minimally invasive techniques that achieve the same outcomes as traditional open surgery but with a less traumatic approach. Through small incisions, specialized instruments and endoscopes, our surgeons perform surgeries with high precision and minimal complications. This results in less pain, reduced blood loss, faster recovery, and fewer scars. Consult the best spine surgeons in Mumbai at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, for advanced care with cutting-edge technology and expert care. 

Cochlear Implants: A Life-Changing Solution for Severe Hearing Loss

Thursday, September 4th, 2025

Imagine waking up to a muffled, silent world – your favourite song playing faintly, unable to hear the birds chirping, or your grandchild’s laughter. Hearing doesn’t just connect us to the world; it stitches us to the people we love. Any change in hearing skills can change your entire world. Hearing loss affects people with increasing age, or also due to certain birth defects. This significantly affects your communication skills and emotional well-being. While hearing aids remain useful for mild to moderate hearing loss, people with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss often require a more advanced hearing loss solution. This is where cochlear implants offer renewed hope. Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital is one of the most renowned centres for Cochlear Implant Surgery in Mumbai.

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What Are Cochlear Implants? How Do They Work?

A cochlear implant is a safe, FDA-approved electronic medical device designed to restore sound perception. Unlike the commonly used hearing aids, which make sounds louder, cochlear implants go around unhealthy hair cells in the inner ear and activate the auditory nerve directly. They are one of the most recommended treatments for severe hearing loss, especially for the elderly.

The system has two parts:

  • Internal implant
    surgically placed under the skin and inside the cochlea.
  • External processor and accessories
    worn behind the ear, these capture and process sounds before transmitting them to the implant.

Once the device is switched on, it usually takes 3 to 4 weeks after surgery, and patients begin their journey toward hearing, supported by audiology-led rehabilitation. Your doctor will guide you with details of the entire procedure and the rehabilitation phase.

Who Needs a Cochlear Implant?

Cochlear implant surgeries are most beneficial for:

  • Children born with profound hearing loss who gain little from hearing aids.
  • Adults who have lost their hearing due to illness, injury, or age-related decline.
  • Individuals with limited speech understanding despite using advanced hearing aids.

This indeed is a life-changing invention and fosters inclusivity for all. Early intervention, particularly in young children, can greatly improve speech and language development, enabling better academic and social integration.

Cochlear Implant Surgery and Recovery

Cochlear Implant Surgery in Mumbai is most commonly done under general anesthesia by a skilled ENT surgeon. The surgery includes locating the internal receiver behind the ear and inserting the internal electrode array into the cochlea with utmost care.

Recovery is a matter of weeks, during which the wound in the surgery site heals. The implant is turned on, and an audiologist programs the device to the patient’s individual hearing requirements. Rehabilitation then ensues over the next few weeks to months, consisting of speech therapy and auditory training to acclimate the brain to the new method of hearing. Patients generally see consistent improvement over time, with adults tending to adapt more quickly than children. The results of this procedure are excellent and more and more patients are choosing it as they enter their golden years.

Benefits of Cochlear Implants

The benefits of cochlear implants are not just about better hearing skills, they help enhance communication, independence, and confidence. Some key advantages include:

  • Improved speech understanding
    Enables better conversations without depending on others or lip reading.
  • Ability to enjoy daily sounds
    From music to footsteps, phones ringing, or even the rustling of leaves.
  • Telephone communication
    Many recipients can converse comfortably over phone calls.
  • Social engagement
    It helps boost participation in conversations during outings and at home.
  • Tinnitus relief
    It helps reduce the severity of tinnitus symptoms.
  • Quality of life improvement
    Restores a sense of connection with family and friends.

With continued use and training, patients typically experience significant progress within the first year itself and see further improvements thereafter.

Cochlear Implants Treatment at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

At Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, one of the Best ENT Hospitals in Mumbai, our team of ENT experts has there at the forefront of cochlear implant care for decades. Our team of experts at our Department of ENT has successfully treated patients ranging from 10-month-old infants to adults. 

Why choose us:

  • Expertise you can trust
    Skilled ENT surgeons and audiologists who offer advanced hearing loss solutions.
  • Comprehensive care
    Complete solutions that include diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation care under one roof.
  • Cutting-edge technology
    The Department is equipped with the most advanced implant designs.
  • Patient-centered approach
    Every treatment plan is customised, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

A hearing loss phenomenon can make life very lonely and can also cause mental health issues. However, you can change this. A cochlear implant is more than a device it’s a life-changing opportunity to help you reconnect with the world. With advanced ENT technology and expert care available locally, Cochlear Implant Surgery in Mumbai is now within reach for both adults and children. If you or a loved one are struggling with severe hearing loss, consult our ENT specialists in Mumbai to know more about a cochlear implant.

What is ACL Surgery? A Complete Guide to the Procedure and Recovery

Monday, August 25th, 2025

Injuries to the knee are among the most common reasons people, especially athletes, sportspersons, and active individuals, seek orthopedic care. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries often result from a sudden, high-intensity force to the knee during a movement, leading to a tear or sprain. A torn ACL necessitates a surgical intervention to restore its stability and function. It is essential to look into all aspects of ACL surgery before the start of the procedure to ensure optimum surgery and recovery. It is essential to consult medical experts at the best ACL surgery hospital in India, such as Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, for a smooth procedure and successful outcomes.

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Understanding ACL Reconstruction

The anterior cruciate ligament surgery, commonly referred to as ACL reconstruction, is performed when the ligament is torn and cannot heal on its own. The ACL is critical for stabilizing the knee during movements like pivoting, sudden stops, or changes in direction. In this procedure, the damaged ligament is replaced with a graft either from your own body (autograft) or from a donor (allograft).

Modern techniques, including minimally invasive arthroscopic approaches, have made ACL surgery safer and more effective, allowing for shorter hospital stays and faster rehabilitation. For complex cases, advanced methods such as the “all-inside” technique are also being used.

How is an ACL Surgery Performed?

ACL reconstruction is most often done using an arthroscopic (keyhole) technique, which reduces scarring and speeds recovery. After administering anesthesia, the surgeon makes a few small incisions around the knee to insert an arthroscope (camera) and specialized instruments.

The torn ligament is carefully removed, and small tunnels are drilled into the femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone). A graft, either taken from the patient’s hamstring or patellar tendon (autograft) or from a donor (allograft) is threaded through these tunnels to replicate the original ACL.

The graft is then held in position by screws, buttons, or other fixation devices to provide stability while healing. Gradually, the graft fuses with the surrounding bone and acts as a natural ligament. The whole procedure is generally 1–2 hours long. Patients typically return home on the same day, but follow-up is managed with a structured physiotherapy for 6–9 months to regain full strength, mobility, and stability.

Recovery and Post-Surgery Care

Here are some key factors that help in smooth recovery post an ACL surgery.

  • Post-Surgery Pain Management
    One of the first steps after ACL surgery is effective pain management. Your healthcare team may prescribe medications, cold therapy, or nerve blocks to minimize discomfort. Open communication with your doctor ensures your pain control plan is personalized and effective, helping you move comfortably into the next phase of recovery.
  • Rehabilitation Exercises
    ACL surgery recovery is largely dependent on physiotherapy. Your physical therapist will design a program focusing on regaining flexibility, building muscle strength, and improving joint stability. Early exercises may include gentle range-of-motion activities, progressing over weeks to strength and agility training. Consistency is key—patients who diligently follow rehab protocols experience the best outcomes.
  • Patience and Progress
    Recovery from ACL reconstruction is not overnight, usually taking 6 to 12 months. It’s crucial to realize that healing is not something that can be hastened. Small steps, such as walking unaided or being able to climb stairs, progress towards long-term success. Premature return to high-impact activities jeopardizes re-injury and prolongs recovery.
  • Nutrition and Healing
    A diet that is well-balanced has a very important but commonly neglected role in recovery after surgery. Foods high in protein contribute to the repair of tissues, whereas fruits, vegetables, and whole grains lower inflammation and contribute to general healing. Hydration and vitamin D–calcium further strengthen bones and joints. While recovering from an ACL surgery, nutrition forms part of the recovery program.
  • Rest, Sleep, and Emotional Support
    Proper rest is necessary for tissue healing. Good sleeping habits, like the use of supportive pillows and regular sleep routines, can contribute greatly to faster recovery. Emotional well-being is also vital. Prolonged recovery times can be frustrating and draining. Encouragement from family members, peers, or even a mental health therapist can keep the individual motivated and resilient.
  • Gradual Return to Activity
    Your surgeon and physiotherapist will guide you through a phased return to daily routines and sports. Walking and light jogging usually precede more strenuous activities like jumping, cutting, or pivoting. Each step should be cleared by your medical team to prevent setbacks. Regular follow-ups with your surgeon are an essential part of recovery.

ACL Surgery at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Have you or has a loved one suffered from an ACL injury? An ACL tear may feel like a life-altering injury, but with the right approach, full recovery and return to an active lifestyle are achievable. You must look for centres with advanced arthroscopic technology, experienced orthopedic surgeons, and structured rehabilitation programs. The right expertise and infrastructure significantly influence recovery outcomes. Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital is renowned as one of the best hospital for ACL surgery in Mumbai.

From ACL tear treatment and surgical reconstruction to a structured rehabilitation plan, every step in the treatment matters. Consult highly trained orthopaedic surgeons at our Centre for Bone & Joint for a detailed investigation and further treatment. Remember, successful ACL surgery recovery is not just about the procedure itself; it’s about the right balance of medical expertise, patient commitment, and holistic care. Consult the best ACL surgeon in Mumbai at our hospital who are also equipped with advanced infrastructure to ensure a safe, effective recovery journey for the patient.

Psoriasis: Symptoms, Prevention, Treatment

Tuesday, August 12th, 2025

If you’re noticing flaky, dry skin patches, don’t dismiss it as just dryness—get yourself checked. Psoriasis is an inflammatory autoimmune disease that affects millions globally. The prevalence of psoriasis in India among adults varies from 0.44 to 2.8 per cent. In spite of its presence, the awareness around this chronic skin condition remains limited. While most people associate this condition as a skin condition, it’s more than just a skin-deep issue. It is essential to get a prompt diagnosis and seek appropriate medical care from a dermatologist. Understanding the psoriasis causes, symptoms, triggers, and treatment options is essential to help manage it better and control its symptoms.

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What is Psoriasis? 

Psoriasis is a chronic condition in which skin cells are produced 10 times faster than usual. The excess production is what results in thick, scaly plaques, often in the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. “Psoriasis” is derived from the Greek terms psora (itch) and iasis (condition), referring to the severe itching and irritation of it.

Though it is not infectious, the physical manifestation of the disease frequently results in social stigma and emotional suffering. Early detection and a customized treatment regimen are essential for minimizing flare-ups and enhancing quality of life.

Types of Psoriasis

There are various types of psoriasis, each having its unique characteristics:

  • Plaque Psoriasis
    The most common form, with 90% cases and has red, elevated patches with white silvery scales.
  • Guttate Psoriasis
    Small, drop-like lesions usually caused by infections such as strep throat.
  • Inverse Psoriasis
    Red, shiny plaques that develop in skin folds, under the arms, groin, and the breasts.
  • Pustular Psoriasis
    White pustules with surrounding redness, usually on hands and feet.
  • Erythrodermic Psoriasis
    Rare, serious type leading to widespread redness and scaling, needing immediate medical help.
  • Nail Psoriasis
    Affected fingernails and toenails and resulting in pitting, discoloration, and crumbling.

Know the Symptoms of Psoriasis

Here are some of the commonly seen psoriasis symptoms that need to be evaluated by a dermatologist.

  • Thick, red patches of skin with silvery scales
  • Dry, cracked, itchy or bleeding skin
  • Itching, burning, or soreness
  • Discoloration and pitting in nails
  • Stiff or swollen joints
  • Dandruff-like flakes on the scalp

Know the Triggers of Psoriasis

Psoriasis causes differ, but they can include:

  • Experiencing ongoing stress
  • Skin injury in the form of cuts, burns, or insect bites
  • Cold and dry air
  • Some medications
  • Lifestyle choices like drinking alcohol or smoking

Preventive Measures of Psoriasis

While psoriasis prevention is a challenging task, here are some helpful ways to prevent flare-ups:

  • Take a bath daily with a gentle, non-irritating cleanser.
  • Moisturize your skin regularly with dermatologist-recommended lotions to prevent drying and scaling.
  • Take steps to help manage stress in your life – sign up for yoga, meditation, or therapy.
  • Avoid triggers, especially alcohol, smoking, and harsh skincare products.
  • Get sufficient sunlight exposure to help reduce psoriasis symptoms.
  • Eat an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

Psoriasis Treatment in India

Over the past few years, psoriasis treatment in India has advanced. Our medical experts offer world-class therapies that include:

  • Topical Treatments 
  • Phototherapy 
  • Oral or injected drugs 
  • Natural remedies like aloe vera, coconut oil

Psoriasis Care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

At Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, we understand that psoriasis affects each patient differently. Our dermatologists and psoriasis treatment specialists in India provide personalized care to help alleviate patients’ symptoms and improve their quality of life. Psoriasis care is a team effort often led by a dermatologist and with consistent commitment from the patient. Our team also offers advanced care to help manage this condition along with lifestyle changes, counseling, and nutritional guidance.Reputed as one of the best hospitals for psoriasis treatment in India, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital stands out with its commitment to providing prompt and multidisciplinary dermatology care. Psoriasis is a manageable condition. With the right awareness, prompt diagnosis, and a consistent care plan, patients can lead full and active lives. If you or someone you know is experiencing psoriasis symptoms, seek prompt medical care.

Common Breastfeeding Challenges

Friday, August 1st, 2025

Breastfeeding is often seen as a natural and instinctive process for most mothers. However, the same is not true for many new mothers. Breastfeeding is a cultural norm and is widely practiced in India. Statistics suggest that around 95% of children are breastfed in India. Yet, the number of infants who receive exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months is lower, around 55% to 63.7%. Lack of support and challenges with breastfeeding may be a reason behind this. Let us look into the most common breastfeeding problems and understand how to resolve them.

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Common Breastfeeding Challenges and Solutions

Breastfeeding is a learned skill for both the baby and the mother. In the first few weeks, your body adjusts to your baby’s feeding rhythm, and your baby learns how to latch and suckle. During this phase, several issues can arise that may interfere with successful breastfeeding. These include:

Sore Nipples and Painful Feeding

Sore nipples in breastfeeding is one of the most commonly experienced concerns. While some tenderness is normal initially, sharp or ongoing pain may suggest a poor latch, friction, or even a fungal infection.

What can help:

  • Ensure the baby’s mouth covers a large area of the areola and not just the nipple.
  • Apply expressed breast milk or a lanolin-based cream to soothe cracked skin.
  • Change breastfeeding positions to reduce pressure on sore areas.

Don’t ignore persistent nipple pain, it often signals that the baby is not latching properly, and adjusting this early can prevent other complications.

Low Milk Supply

It is normal to be concerned about low milk supply, but most mothers get enough for their baby. True low supply can happen in cases of infrequent feeding, poor latching, maternal stress, or medical conditions.

What can help:

  • Always feed on demand, which means around 8–12 times within 24 hours.
  • Drink plenty of water and consume a healthy diet.
  • Avoid formula supplementation unless medically advised.
  • Apply breast compression and change sides to promote milk flow.

If issues persist, a lactation consultant can assist in determining if your baby is latching correctly and how to boost supply.

Breast Engorgement and Plugged Ducts

Breast engorgement usually happens in the early postpartum period when the milk “comes in.” Breasts will feel heavy, swollen, and sensitive, making latching challenging.

What can help:

  • Feed the baby more often and do not miss night feeds.
  • Apply warm compresses before feeding for relief. 
  • Massage the breast lightly during feeding to facilitate milk flow.

Plugged ducts are tender lumps and can cause mastitis if not treated. Continue feeding from the involved side and see your doctor if the symptoms increase.

Baby Not Latching Properly

Incorrect latching is one of the prime reasons behind most breastfeeding problems, ranging from sore nipples to inadequate milk supply. Proper latching allows the baby to receive adequate milk while avoiding pain for the mother.

What can help:

  • Clicking or smacking sound
  • Lips are turned inwards
  • Baby looks frustrated or dissatisfied after the feed

An experienced maternity professional or lactation consultant will be able to show proper positioning and assist in checking for anatomical problems such as tongue-tie.

Breast Infections (Mastitis)

Mastitis refers to an inflammation of breast tissue, which is accompanied by redness, fever, and flu-like symptoms. It can be caused by blocked ducts or bacterial entry through cracked nipples.

What can help:

  • Breastfeeding or pumping must not stop.
  • Rest and stay well hydrated.
  • Consult your doctor if antibiotics are needed.

Untreated mastitis can progress quickly, so don’t delay seeking care.

How to Support Breastfeeding Mothers

Breastfeeding is a personal journey and unique for every mother. It also depends on the mothers overall physical and mental health.

  • Support at Home
    Partners, family members and support staff can ease the journey by sharing household responsibilities and ensure the mother has uninterrupted time to rest and nurse. 
  • Guidance from Healthcare Experts
    Timely advice from doctors, nurses, and trained lactation consultants related to latching techniques and feeding positions is of great value.
  • Support in the Workplace
    Supportive work environments with adequate maternity leave, flexible hours, designated nursing rooms, and understanding from co-workers helps mothers continue breastfeeding.
  • Public Spaces and Social Acceptance
    Comfortable, clean breastfeeding rooms in public places such as malls, airports, and hospitals make it easier for mothers to feed their babies while on the move.
  • Community and Peer Support
    Peer groups and breastfeeding support groups on social media help offer shared experiences, breastfeeding tips for new moms, and emotional reassurance.

Breastfeeding Support at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Breastfeeding may be natural, but that doesn’t mean it comes without effort. Most breastfeeding problems are temporary and treatable with the right support. Seeking help early can save you unnecessary stress and ensure that both you and your baby benefit from a healthy start.

If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. At our hospital, our Centre for Mother & Child offers care through expert-led, personalized lactation support for new moms. We provide both inpatient and outpatient guidance tailored to each mother’s needs and challenges. It includes:

  • One-on-one consultations with certified lactation consultants
  • Postnatal education classes
  • Support for returning to work while continuing breastfeeding
  • Guidance on breastfeeding, pumping and storage techniques

Consult Mumbai’s best maternity specialists at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital for supportive and compassionate care for your breastfeeding journey.