Apollo News (1136)
Milestones
1 million shots daily: This private hospital is ready with Covid-19 vaccination plan
India’s largest hospital chain says it’s ready to administer one million coronavirus vaccine doses a day, but the government has not made clear how vaccines will be distributed and whether private health-care networks will be involved.
New Initiatives
Pioneering Precision Medicine: New Research Hub Opens at Apollo University
Apollo Hospitals has taken a significant leap forward in healthcare innovation with the inauguration of the Centre for Digital Health and Precision Medicine (CDHPM) at The Apollo University in Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh. This ground-breaking initiative, a collaboration between Apollo University, Apollo Hospitals, and the University of Leicester, aims to revolutionise healthcare delivery through advanced digital solutions and personalised medicine approaches.
Pioneering Research for Better Healthcare
The CDHPM will spearhead research in critical healthcare areas, focusing on:
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Acute care
• Emergency medicine
• Multi-morbidity
The centre seeks to elevate patient care standards and drive healthcare innovation by concentrating on disease prediction, prevention, and management. This approach aligns with the growing trend in healthcare towards preventive and personalized medicine, which has shown promising results in improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
Collaborative Education Programs
As part of this initiative, The Apollo University is introducing three innovative undergraduate programs in collaboration with the University of Leicester. These programs will be followed by specialized Master’s degrees in healthcare, co-developed by both institutions. This educational partnership aims to:
• Equip future healthcare professionals with cutting-edge skills
• Foster a new generation of medical innovators
• Bridge the gap between academic research and clinical practice
Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, Founder and Chairman of Apollo Hospitals Group, commented on the launch: “The Centre for Digital Health and Precision Medicine represents our commitment to shaping the future of healthcare. By combining Apollo’s clinical expertise with the academic prowess of the University of Leicester, we are creating a powerhouse of medical innovation that will benefit patients not just in India, but globally.”
Dr. Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals Group, emphasized the centre’s potential: “The CDHPM will catalyse healthcare transformation. By combining digital innovation with precision medicine, we are not just treating diseases; we are reimagining healthcare delivery for the 21st century.”
As the Centre for Digital Health and Precision Medicine begins its operations, it stands poised to make significant contributions to medical research, education, and patient care. This initiative reaffirms Apollo Hospitals’ position as a global healthcare leader, committed to pushing the boundaries of medical science and improving lives through innovation and excellence.
New Initiatives
The Apollo University and Apollo Hospitals Partner with the University of Leicester to Establish the Centre fo...
India, January 20, 2025: The Apollo University, Apollo Hospitals and University of Leicester, United Kingdom, have partnered to establish the Centre for Digital Health and Precision Medicine (CDHPM) at The Apollo University campus in Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh. The advanced research centre will bring together the expertise and resources of both institutions to create a global hub for digital health and precision medicine. The CDHPM Centre will be the hub in Chittoor, India. The hub at the University of Leicester will be based at the BHF Cardiovascular Research Centre at Glenfield Hospital, Leicester.The Co-Directors of the centre will be Professor Sir Nilesh J Samani, Professor of Cardiology at the University of Leicester, and Dr Sujoy Kar, Adjunct Faculty, The Apollo University, Chief Medical Information Officer, Apollo Hospitals.The CDHPM was inaugurated today by Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, Chancellor of the Apollo University and Founding Chairman, Apollo Hospitals in the presence of University of Leicester and The Apollo University’s Vice Chancellors. The Centre, which is fully functional today, will focus on revolutionising patient care by developing novel digital and personalised solutions using advanced analytical approaches to routinely collect healthcare data.Commenting on the launch of CDHPM, Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, said, “At Apollo, we have always been pro-health, and the Centre for Digital Health and Precision Medicine (CDHPM) sits at the core of that belief. With the CDHPM, we aspire to transform healthcare delivery by bettering disease prediction, prevention, diagnosis, and management for acute and chronic conditions and are committed to profoundly impacting global healthcare. I am certain that such advancements will benefit patients globally and shape the future of personalised and data-driven medicine. I am happy to have launched the research centre in my birthplace in partnership with Leicester University.”Dr.Vinod Bhat, Vice Chancellor of The Apollo University, discusses the partnership and its potential to drive transformative healthcare solutions forward. He says, “The launch of the Centre for Digital Health and Precision Medicine marks a monumental step forward in The Apollo University’s commitment to revolutionising healthcare through innovation and collaboration. By integrating cutting-edge medical research with advanced technology, the Centre aims to redefine patient care and create a global benchmark for precision medicine. This partnership with the University of Leicester strengthens our academic and research capabilities and paves the way for transformative healthcare solutions to create new academic benchmarks.”Commenting on the launch of CDHPM, Professor Nishan Canagarajah, President and Vice Chancellor of the University of Leicester, said: “The establishment of the centre will allow Leicester and Apollo to build the healthcare of the future, which has the potential to transform lives not only in India and the UK but around the globe.Combining the world-leading expertise of both institutions means we can find new and novel ways to solve the biggest challenges in health. We have also taken the first steps to provide cutting-edge degree programmes designed to address the current and future shortages of expertise in healthcare services, both in the UK and India.”The centre’s visionThe Centre’s unique strength is underpinned by the extensive understanding that the institutions have of the challenges faced by healthcare systems globally. By combining the expertise and resources of The Apollo University and the University of Leicester and leveraging the resources accessible to both sides securely, the Centre will direct its initial research efforts toward the following – although not exclusively – areas of shared strengths: cardiovascular diseases and care, acute and emergency medicine, and multi-morbidity—especially given the ageing population and the prevalence of individuals living with multiple conditions.The Centre will serve as a critical research hub within The Apollo University’s ecosystem, advancing collaborative projects in Precision Medicine and Digital Health. This joint Centre aspires to further research excellence and make meaningful contributions to healthcare innovation and patient care.Clinical Medicine research at the University of Leicester was ranked joint 2nd in the Times Higher Education (THE)’s analysis of the UK’s Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021.The Apollo University – University of Leicester programmes being launchedIn addition, starting September 2025, The Apollo University will introduce three collaborative undergraduate programmes curated to fulfil the increasing demand for quality transnational education in domains such as Artificial intelligence, Electronics Electrical and Information Engineering, and Business Administration. As part of such programmes, students will complete the first two years of their studies at The Apollo University, India and subsequently progress to the University of Leicester, UK, for the final year of study of the programme.Additionally, four healthcare-focused Masters programmes will be offered at the University of Leicester. These programmes will cater to the increasing demand for healthcare professionals with specialised competencies. Further speciality medicine programmes developed jointly by Apollo Hospitals, University of Leicester, NHS England and the BAPIO Training Academy (BTA) will offer students diverse pathways to train, specialise and practice in the UK.The Apollo University – University of Leicester partnership so farAn overarching MoU was signed in June 2023 to strengthen links between India and the UK, establish a mutual desire to promote international cooperation and explore collaborative education and research programmes, particularly in healthcare and data science.Contact Information:For more information about the Centre for Digital Health and Precision Medicine, please visit: www.cdhpm.comAbout The Apollo University, ChittoorThe Apollo University (TAU) is the Apollo Hospitals Educational & Research Foundation’s (AHERF) commitment to transform healthcare education, research, skilling, and training in India. Through the university, the group endeavours to make definitive contributions to society through healthcare research and innovation. With defining features such as industry exposure and ensuing experiential learning, international mobility options, academic rigour, and quality faculty, the student experience at TAU creates clear value for students and, through them, for all stakeholders in the healthcare industry.TAU commenced operations by offering diverse healthcare-focused UG and PG programmes in 2021.About Apollo HospitalsApollo revolutionised healthcare when Dr. Prathap C. Reddy opened the first hospital in Chennai in 1983. Today, Apollo is India’s largest integrated healthcare platform with over 10,000 beds across 73 hospitals, over 6000 pharmacies and over 200 clinics and diagnostic centres, as well as 150 telemedicine centres. It is the world’s leading Cardiac Centre with over 200,000 surgeries and the world’s largest private cancer care provider. Apollo continues to invest in research to bring the most cutting-edge technologies, equipment and treatment protocols to ensure patients have the best available care in the world. Apollo’s 100,000 family members are dedicated to bringing you the best care and leaving the world better than we found it.About the University of LeicesterThe University of Leicester excels in health research and education, having achieved gold status in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) for its student experience and outcomes. Its Biomedical Research Centre- awarded £26 million in funding by the National Institute for Health and Care Research- is at the forefront of clinical research in many health domains. The city’s 22% South Asian population, largely of Indian heritage, underpins Leicester’s global connections, positioning it as a dynamic hub for healthcare and academic innovation, deeply integrated with cultural diversity. Kamlesh Khunti, Professor of Primary Care Diabetes and Vascular Medicine at the University of Leicester, is co-leading a £10m flagship study to help improve the care outcomes of people living with multiple long-term health conditions or multi-morbidity in India and Nepal.
New Initiatives
Apollo Hospitals takes up a 4.5-Hour Stroke Treatment Promise with Advanced Stroke Care Network with Extended ...
Apollo Hospitals Chennai is setting new standards in stroke care by extending its treatment window to 24 hours for major strokes while maintaining its 4.5-hour stroke treatment promise. This initiative comes as a response to the alarming rise in stroke cases in India, which have increased from 1.25 million in 2021 to approximately 1.8 million in 2023, according to the Indian Stroke Association (ISA).
Expanding the Treatment Window Apollo Hospitals has developed a comprehensive Stroke Network that offers a patient-centered approach to stroke care. This network ensures that every patient receives timely and precise treatment, crucial for minimizing stroke-related disability and improving outcomes. While the initial 4.5 hours, known as the “golden hour,” remains critical, Apollo now extends advanced treatment options up to 24 hours after stroke onset for patients with large vessel blockages. Dr. Srinivasan Paramasivam, Senior Consultant Neurologist at Apollo Hospitals, emphasizes, “A stroke can have a devastating impact, not only for patients but for their families as well. At Apollo, we understand the urgency and precision needed in stroke care. Our multidisciplinary team is equipped with advanced technology to provide immediate, life-saving treatment. By focusing on early intervention, we are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for our patients”.
Key features of Apollo’s Advanced Stroke Care Network include:
24/7 Emergency Services: Ensuring round-the-clock availability of critical care for stroke patients.
AI-Enhanced Diagnostic Facilities: Utilizing cutting-edge artificial intelligence to support fast and accurate diagnosis.
Advanced Imaging Techniques: Employing CT and MRI perfusion studies to guide treatment decisions.
Specialized Treatment Options: Offering thrombolysis and thrombectomy based on individual patient needs.
Multidisciplinary Team Approach: Collaborating across specialties including neurology, neurosurgery, neuro-intervention, and critical care.
Technological Advancements and Expert Care Apollo Hospitals leverages state-of-the-art technology and a team of experts to provide comprehensive stroke care:
Robotic Technology: Enhancing precision in stroke treatment procedures.
AI-Enhanced Diagnostic Tools: Accelerating diagnosis and treatment planning.
Advanced Imaging: Utilizing CT and MRI perfusion studies for accurate assessment.
Specialized Interventions: Offering thrombolysis and thrombectomy for appropriate cases.
Read more about the 4.5-Hour Stroke Treatment Promise
Events
Apollo Cancer Centers Leads Breast Cancer Awareness with “Pedal Pink” Cyclothon in Tiruvallur
Apollo Cancer Centers and Apollo Specialty Hospitals, Vanagaram, have taken a significant step in promoting breast cancer awareness by organizing the “Pedal Pink” cyclothon in Tiruvallur. This event, part of the #TalkPink campaign, aims to foster open conversations about breast health and encourage routine breast self-examinations.
The “Pedal Pink” cyclothon, a 5km event, saw participation from over 200 residents of Tiruvallur, demonstrating strong community involvement in this crucial healthcare initiative. The event was flagged off by Thiru. S. M. Nasar, Hon’ble Minister of Minorities Welfare & Non-Resident Tamils Welfare, Tamil Nadu, along with other local dignitaries and Apollo’s medical experts.
Thiru. S. M. Nasar emphasized the community’s role in breast cancer awareness, stating, “Raising awareness about breast cancer is not only a health issue but a community responsibility. Through the ‘Pedal Pink’ cyclothon, we aim to encourage every woman to prioritize her health and empower families to support one another. Early detection can save lives, and I am proud to stand with Apollo Cancer Centres and the people of Tiruvallur in spreading this critical message of prevention and care.”
Read more about the “Pedal Pink” Cyclothon in Tiruvallur
New Initiatives
Apollo’s New Approach to Cancer Awareness – “DrapePink” Bridges Healthcare and Heritage in the Fight Aga...
In a powerful display of commitment to breast cancer awareness, Apollo Cancer Centres and Sundari Silks successfully hosted the “DrapePink” initiative—a vibrant two-day saree showcase and awareness event—at the Sundari Silks showroom in T. Nagar, Chennai, on October 22nd and 23rd, 2024. This innovative campaign, part of the #TalkPink Campaign, served as an information hub focused on breast cancer prevention, detection, and survival.
The event was graced by Chief Guest Ms. Khushbu Sundar, Indian politician, actress, and film producer, who participated in the grand unveiling of “DrapePink”. The showroom was transformed into a pink haven, featuring a stunning array of elegant sarees. Ms. Suneeta Reddy, Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals, Ms. Pavithra Manmohan, Director of Sundari Silks, and a team of breast oncologists from Apollo Cancer Centres joined the celebration.
“DrapePink” reaffirmed a strong dedication to raising public health awareness about breast cancer. The event offered attendees a meaningful opportunity to engage in open discussions about breast health and learn essential breast self-examination techniques. Each participant received a copy of ‘ArtCan’—a beautifully illustrated book published by Apollo Cancer Centres highlighting the eight steps of breast self-examination, empowering women aged 25-50 to take proactive steps in managing their health.
Read more about the “Apollo’s New Approach to Cancer Awareness – DrapePink”
Milestones
Apollo Hospitals Achieves Major Milestone in Cardiac Care with 500 Robotic Cardiac Procedures
Apollo Hospitals Chennai has achieved a remarkable milestone in cardiac care, completing 500 robotic cardiac surgeries. This achievement underscores Apollo’s commitment to advanced, patient-centric care and solidifies its position as a leader in minimally invasive cardiac procedures.
Key Developments in Robotic Cardiac Surgery
Apollo Hospitals has revolutionized heart care through robotic-assisted cardiac surgery, eliminating the need for sternotomy in complex cardiac procedures. The hospital’s expert team, led by Dr. M.M. Yusuf, Consultant of Robotic and Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery, has performed a wide range of procedures including Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery (CABG), heart valve repair/replacement, and complex cardiac repairs.
Dr. M.M. Yusuf states, “Reaching 500 robotic cardiac procedures is a testament to the evolving capabilities of modern medical technology and the trust our patients have placed in us. With robotic-assisted surgery, we are not just offering quicker recovery times and less pain but truly transforming the patient experience.”
Technical Advancements and Patient Benefits
The robotic-assisted cardiac surgery at Apollo Hospitals employs cutting-edge technology, utilizing tiny robotic arms and a high-definition 3D camera to perform intricate procedures through small incisions. This approach offers numerous advantages over traditional open-heart surgery:
Minimized Trauma: Patients experience less pain and minimal blood loss due to the absence of sternotomy.
Reduced Infection Risk: Smaller incisions lead to a lower risk of post-operative infections.
Faster Recovery: Many patients begin walking the day after surgery and are discharged within 3 to 4 days.
Quicker Return to Normal Life: Patients typically resume normal activities within 2 to 3 weeks, compared to 3 to 6 months for traditional cardiac surgery recovery.
Superior Long-term Outcomes: The use of internal mammary arteries in CABG procedures significantly reduces the risk of future blockages.
Read more about the 500 Robotic Cardiac Procedures
New Initiatives
Apollo Cancer Centre’s “Men in Pink Walkathon” to Revolutionize Breast Cancer Awareness.
In a pioneering move to revolutionize breast cancer awareness, Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai strides hundreds of men in an unprecedented ‘Men in Pink Walkathon’ at Chennai’s Besant Nagar. The initiative aims to break the barrier and prod the men to start the conversation on women’s breast health. This innovative campaign transforms the traditional approach to breast cancer awareness by engaging men to step up as advocates for their mothers, wives, sisters, and friends breast health screening and early detection.
The #TalkPink campaign introduces a paradigm shift in breast cancer awareness by specifically targeting male advocates. With breast cancer being diagnosed every four minutes in India, Apollo Cancer Centres recognizes the urgent need to break down barriers to early detection. The campaign acknowledges a critical insight: while women often prioritize others’ health over their own, men can play a pivotal role in encouraging regular screening and preventive care.
Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Ms. Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, inaugurated the event alongside key Apollo healthcare leaders, including Mr. Harshad Reddy, Director of Group Oncology & International at Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited. The walkathon drew enthusiastic participation from diverse community segments, including:
1. Students from Patrician College of Arts & Science
2. Members of Rotary Club Chennai Green City
3. Members of Rotary Community Corps of Bluewaves
4. Healthcare professionals from Apollo Cancer Centres
Read more about Apollo Cancer Centre’s “Men in Pink Walkathon”
Technology
Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad Advances Non-invasive Thermal Ablation for Treating Benign and Selected Malignant T...
Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad proudly announced the expansion of its non-invasive thermal ablation procedures for treating benign and selected malignant thyroid nodules. This innovative approach offers a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional surgery, enhancing patient care and outcomes.
Key Developments in Thyroid Treatment
Thyroid nodules, affecting 4 to 7% of the population, are among the most common thyroid disorders. While 95% of these nodules are benign, a small percentage can be malignant. Traditionally, surgery has been the primary treatment method, but it comes with risks such as permanent hypothyroidism, surgical scars, and potential nerve damage. To address these challenges, Apollo Hospitals now introduces advanced thermal ablation (MWA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA).
Thermal ablation procedures at Apollo Hospitals utilize cutting-edge technology to provide precise treatment. Performed under ultrasound guidance by experts, these techniques selectively target thyroid nodules without affecting surrounding healthy tissue. Key benefits include:
– Reduction in nodule size and compressive symptoms
– No requirement for general anesthesia
– No surgical scars or postoperative pain
– Same-day discharge for patients
Dr. Siddhartha Chakravarthy, an experienced Endocrine Surgeon at Apollo Hospital Jubilee Hills, leads the team in implementing these procedures. He emphasizes the importance of a thorough clinical, functional, and radiological assessment before treatment to ensure optimal outcomes.
Thermal ablation is now recognized as an effective alternative to surgery for managing benign thyroid nodules, whether solid, cystic, functional, or non-functional. Esteemed organizations such as the Korean Health Authorities, American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, Italian Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, and European Thyroid Association recommend these techniques as a first-line treatment option for selected patients.
This operator-dependent procedure requires specialized expertise and is performed at Apollo Hospitals’ state-of-the-art facilities. The careful selection of patients based on nodule size and characteristics ensures the highest success rates.
Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad continues to lead in medical excellence by adopting innovative techniques like thermal ablation. This development represents a significant breakthrough for patients seeking safer and more aesthetic treatment options for thyroid nodules. By providing expert-led services and embracing cutting-edge technology, Apollo remains dedicated to advancing healthcare standards globally.
New Initiatives
Apollo Hospitals Ahmedabad Launches State’s First FemRejuvenate Therapy for Women’s Intimate Wellness.
Apollo Hospitals Ahmedabad has taken a significant step in advancing women’s health by launching the Apollo Female Aesthetic Studio, which introduces FemRejuvenate Therapy. This innovative treatment is designed to rejuvenate vaginal health and enhance long-term intimacy, wellness, and confidence in women.
Apollo Hospitals Ahmedabad proudly presents the first-of-its-kind FemRejuvenate Therapy in the state, marking a new era in intimate wellness. This revolutionary treatment utilizes cutting-edge Radio Frequency Energy and Laser Technology through advanced ThermiVa and LYRA solutions. Women can now access a non-surgical, painless method to restore vaginal function and aesthetics, enhancing their overall well-being.
FemRejuvenate Therapy combines state-of-the-art technology to deliver exceptional results. The therapy is non-invasive, requires no downtime, and does not require special pre- or post-operative preparations.
Dr. Vineet Mishra, Director of Advanced Gynaecology & Fertility at Apollo Hospitals Ahmedabad, highlights that these treatments extend beyond aesthetics by offering substantial functional improvements. He stated, “These treatments help women regain confidence in their intimate lives.”
The introduction of FemRejuvenate Therapy addresses common concerns such as vaginal dryness, laxity, and urinary incontinence, particularly following childbirth or menopause. This innovative therapy reflects a growing global trend where more women seek to enhance their intimate wellness through advanced medical solutions.
Mr. Neeraj Lal, COO of Apollo Hospitals Ahmedabad, emphasizes the hospital’s commitment to providing innovative healthcare solutions tailored to women’s needs. He states, “The Apollo Female Aesthetic Studio offers a comprehensive solution for intimate wellness and personal empowerment.”
The Apollo Female Aesthetic Studio is poised to transform women’s health and wellness by offering a wide range of rejuvenation therapies tailored to individual needs. These include:
– Vaginal rejuvenation
– Hormonal balance therapy
– Pelvic floor rehabilitation
– Postpartum recovery programs
– Consultative services
– Laser therapy for intimate wellness
– Comprehensive wellness assessments
– Non-surgical treatments for bladder control
By providing a discreet and comfortable environment for those seeking to restore their intimate well-being, Apollo Hospitals continues to lead in healthcare excellence and innovation.
As FemRejuvenate Therapy gains popularity globally and in India, Apollo Hospitals Ahmedabad remains at the forefront of delivering advanced healthcare solutions that empower women. With ongoing advancements in technology, Apollo is committed to enhancing intimate wellness and ensuring every woman has access to state-of-the-art medical care tailored to their needs.
New Initiatives
Apollo Hospital Hyderabad Achieves Breakthrough: First E-CPR Survival in Southern India
Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad has achieved a ground-breaking milestone by successfully treating the first-ever E-CPR survivor in the Telugu-speaking states. This remarkable achievement underscores Apollo’s commitment to pioneering advanced critical care solutions.
On September 10th, 22-year-old Ms. Kattam Swathy arrived at Apollo Hospital, Jubilee Hills, with severe breathing difficulties and unreportable blood pressure. Despite initial treatments in the emergency department, her condition worsened, leading to cardiac arrest. In this critical moment, the decision to initiate E-CPR (ECMO-assisted CPR) was made, marking a pivotal step in her treatment.
E-CPR involves using ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation), a life-saving procedure that temporarily takes over heart and lung functions. During Ms. Swathy’s cardiac arrest, the E-CPR team swiftly initiated ECMO while continuing chest compressions. This advanced technique allowed the medical team to maintain blood flow to vital organs, providing crucial time to address the underlying causes of her cardiac arrest.
ECMO Technology: Temporarily supports heart and lung functions
E-CPR Process: Combines ECMO with CPR for enhanced survival chances
Apollo’s Critical Care Team emphasized, the importance of rapid decision-making and expert coordination in Ms. Swathy’s successful recovery. Ms. Swathy’s recovery highlights the transformative potential of E-CPR in emergency cardiac care. By the seventh day post-treatment, both the ventilator and ECMO were removed, and she was discharged on the tenth day in good health. This case illustrates how E-CPR can significantly improve survival rates and neurological outcomes for patients experiencing cardiac arrest.
Survival Statistics: Sudden cardiac death affects 180,000 to 250,000 individuals annually
E-CPR Advantages: Offers better survival chances and improved quality of life
Mr. Neeraj Lal, COO of Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, stated, “This success story demonstrates our dedication to adopting cutting-edge technologies that save lives and enhance patient outcomes.”
A New Era in Emergency Care
The successful implementation of E-CPR at Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad sets a new standard in critical care. This innovative approach increases survival rates and ensures a higher quality of life for patient’s post-recovery. Ms. Swathy’s case exemplifies the life-saving impact of well-coordinated medical teams equipped with advanced technology.
Apollo Hospitals remains at the forefront of global healthcare leadership by continuously integrating innovative techniques into its services. As E-CPR becomes more widely adopted, Apollo is committed to expanding its capabilities and improving patient care across all its facilities.
Technology
Apollo Prostate Institute Launches South India’s First Water Vapour Thermotherapy for Enlarged Prostate.
The Apollo Prostate Institute has rolled out a unique treatment module to treat prostate disorders under a single roof. Irrespective of whether the case is simple or complex or benign or malignant, the Institute has assembled all the modalities approved globally , in one place, to treat the patient in the best possible manner. Most notable of them is the steam therapy for treating enlarged prostate glands , seen as a breakthrough process globally.
Water vapor or steam therapy is a novel treatment approach to treat the prostate and has been approved by FDA and has been recently launched in India. The Apollo Prostate Institute has taken the lead in the matter, marking yet another milestone in the hospital group’s continued commitment towards innovative practices.
Many men aged over 50 suffer from BPH (prostate enlargement) symptoms in India. It is also important to note that that nearly 7-11% of adults (less than 45 years of age) are also showing symptoms of BPH. Prostate is a non-endocrine gland situated between urinary bladder and urinary passage in all men. It starts increasing in size after 25 years and reaches its maximum during 45-50 years during which time people start feeling some urinary symptoms. Further it can grow as a hypertrophy (much bigger) or it can under atrophy (small) depending on the genetic make up of each person.
There are various medical procedures to treat men with enlarged prostate glands varying from simple medications to various other methods like TURP, laser treatment, Urolift, TUNA, TUMT, laparoscopic procedures and robotics to mention the few. However, the new addition of steam therapy (water vapour thermotherapy) to treat prostate has overcome the pit falls and side effects of medications and prevents the complications of other major surgical procedures.
“We have taken a cafeteria approach to treat patients with BPH,” says Dr T Manohar, Chief of Urology services, Uro-oncology, robotics and kidney transplantation, Apollo Hospitals. “A cafeteria approach involves empowering patients to choose the treatment approach while informing them about the pros and cons of each procedure . Such an informed choice will improve the acceptability of medical interventions and the patient’s compliance to treatments.”
Water vapour therapy (REZUM) or steam therapy is done by injecting 0.45 ml of steam (under 100-113 degree C) for 9 seconds each into different areas of the prostate which are causing obstructions through a disposable device under mild sedation or local anesthesia. The procedure takes 10-15 minutes and the patient is discharged the same day. Rezum is a proprietary name invented by Boston Scientific, an American biomedical engineering firm. It is approved by FDA and was introduced to India in late January 2024.
Dr Manohar further added, “This novel technique has revolutionised BHP treatment, especially for young adults having side effects with medications, for those wishing to preserve ejaculatory and sexual functions and where anesthesia is contraindicated.”
The procedure has several advantages including prevention of sexual dysfunction and preservation of the ejaculatory phenomenon. Mr. Uday Davda, VP & Unit Head, Apollo Hospitals, Seshadripuram said “There is no removal of the prostate gland, no use of any foreign body and minimal or no requirement of analgesics.”
The cutting-edge water vapour therapy has been successful in the USA, Europe and Asia Pacific countries including Australia, Japan, China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, etc. Mr. Manish Mattoo, CEO-Karnataka Region, Apollo Hospitals, said “It has marked its global presence with an adherence to international safety standards and we are proud to bring this proven method to India.”
Usually, the patient is discharged on the same day after the procedure and typically one feels improvement in urine flow starting from 3 weeks and maximum benefits are experienced after 3-months.
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