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

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”

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.

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.

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.

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.

Apollo Hospital Chennai has successfully performed India’s first successful Mitral and Tricuspid Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER) on a 59-year-old woman with severe heart failure. This significant achievement offers new hope to high-risk heart failure patients in India, showcasing TEER as a viable alternative to traditional surgery. Dr. Sai Satish, Clinical Lead, Transcatheter Heart Valve Therapies for Apollo Group remarked, “This innovative procedure highlights the exceptional synergy of medical advancement, Apollo’s state-of-the-art capabilities, and the expertise of our dedicated doctors. The dual valve repair, a first in India, reflects our team’s ability to handle complex cases and improve patient outcomes. The patient’s smooth recovery and symptom relief demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach, offering new options for those with challenging heart conditions.” TEER, or Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair, is a modern, minimally invasive technique used to treat conditions like mitral regurgitation, where the heart’s mitral valve does not close properly, causing blood to leak backward. The procedure involves threading a catheter with a small clip to the valve to help it close more fully, improving blood flow and reducing symptoms. Read more about India’s First Dual Heart Valve Repair

Apollo Hospitals Chennai has reached a significant milestone in medical innovation and surgical excellence by successfully completing 6,000+ robotic procedures. Since the inception of its flagship robotic surgery program in 2011, the hospital has been the largest multispecialty robotic surgery program in India, offering cutting-edge technology to enhance patient care and surgical outcomes. Dr. Prathap C Reddy, Founder-Chairman of Apollo Hospitals Group, said, “I’m truly proud that Apollo has reached this incredible milestone of over 6,000 robotic surgeries. It shows just how committed we are to bringing the best of healthcare innovation to our patients. My heartfelt thanks go out to our amazing team of doctors and healthcare professionals at Apollo Hospitals. Their hard work and skill have made this achievement possible. Robotic surgery has really changed the game for us, giving our patients better outcomes and shorter recovery times. It’s wonderful to see Apollo continuing to raise the bar for healthcare in India” Ms. Preetha Reddy, The Vice Chairman of Apollo Hospitals Group, said, “We are proud of our multidisciplinary team at Apollo Hospitals Chennai, whose expertise and dedication have made this achievement possible. As leaders in healthcare, we continue to invest in cutting-edge technologies and enhance our capabilities to provide world-class care to our patients.” Read more about the 6,000+ Successful Robotic surgeries

Apollo Hospital, Chennai proudly announces a landmark achievement in Cardiology with the successful completion of the first-ever TRIC valve implantation in India in a patient with 2 existing prosthetic valves . This groundbreaking procedure offers a lifesaving alternative for patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation who are at high risk for traditional surgery. With this procedure, the patient acquired 4 prosthetic valves in his cardio-vascular system which is the first time in India. The recipient, a 71-year-old male with a complex history of cardiovascular issues including diabetes, hypertension, and previous 2 heart valve replacements (one open surgical and one TAVI valve done at Apollo hospitals few months ago), presented with symptoms that significantly reduced his quality of life. Traditional surgery posed too great a risk due to his frail condition and multiple comorbidities. Apollo’s Chennai team, led by Dr. Refai Showkathali, Senior Consultant, Interventional Cardiology, opted for the pinhole (minimally invasive) TRIC valve approach. This innovative technique involves placing bioprosthetic valves in the major veins leading to the heart via a small pinhole procedure in the groin, significantly reducing surgical risks and recovery time. Read more about TRIC valve implantation procedure done at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai.

In a trailblazing move for pediatric healthcare, Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Trichy has successfully performed its first Paediatric living donor liver transplant. This milestone underscores the hospital’s ability to conduct complex procedures in Tier II cities, offering new hope for young patients with severe liver conditions. The recipient of this life-saving procedure was two-year-old child, diagnosed with Congenital Hepatic Fibrosis—a condition that had escalated to a critical stage, threatening his young life. Faced with a dire need for a transplant and the challenges of finding a compatible donor liver small enough for a child, the solution came from within his family. The child’s father, aged 44, stepped forward to donate a part of his liver, demonstrating profound parental dedication. Dr. Elankumaran Krishnan, Senior Consultant – Liver Transplant Surgery, Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Trichy, who led the complex operation said “Pediatric liver transplants require highly specialized skills due to the smaller size of organs and blood vessels in children. Our team’s ability to perform this operation successfully underlines our commitment to excellence and our state-of-the-art facilities. The procedure was performed after meticulous planning with multidisciplinary experts from the surgical team, PICU, pediatrics and hepatology along with dedicated nursing and support staff. The successful transplant has significantly improved the child’s prognosis and highlights the growing capabilities of healthcare institutions in tier II cities like Trichy, reducing the need for families to travel far for specialized care” Read more about first Paediatric living donor liver transplant.

Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC), in association with Accuray, a global provider of radiation therapy devices, has launched the Indian Sub-Continent’s first robotic and stereotactic therapy education centre, Robotic & Stereotactic Radiosurgery Program. This initiative will be established at ACC in Chennai and Bangalore, and will provide advanced radiosurgery educational training to radiation oncologists, physicists, radiation therapists, and technologists from hospitals, cancer centres and other institutions. The program includes comprehensive discussions, demonstrations, and hands-on training focusing on robotic and stereotactic radiosurgery. This initiative marks a significant milestone in India’s medical education landscape, making world-class training available locally. Mr Dinesh Madhavan, President Group Oncology, and International, Apollo Hospital Enterprises Ltd, said, “In the field of cancer care, ground-breaking technologies pave the way for highly personalized and effective treatment. The inception of the Robotic Stereotactic Radiotherapy Program by Apollo Cancer Centres and Accuray will advance training facilities for the ASEAN region. It will help equip oncologists, physicists, and therapists with the critical knowledge and skills needed to leverage the latest in CyberKnife technology.” Ms Suzanne Winter, President & CEO, Accuray, said, “Accuray celebrates the expansion of the CyberKnife® S7™ System to Apollo Cancer Centers in Chennai and Bangalore, showcasing our enduring collaboration with the hospitals to enhance cancer care in India. With its unparalleled precision, the CyberKnife S7 System redefines treatment standards, empowering clinicians to optimize outcomes. Additionally, it enables the delivery of high doses of radiation, typically in 1 to 5 sessions for fast and effective treatments, marking a significant advancement in cancer therapy.” Read more about the Launch of India Sub- Continent’s First Robotic Stereotactic Radiotherapy Program

The life of a 38-year-old Yemeni patient with chronic Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) was saved in just 29 minutes by a robotic procedure at Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore. This remarkable procedure underscores Apollo’s advanced medical capabilities and India’s growing reputation for high-quality healthcare. A 38-year-old patient from Yemen came to Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road, in dire need of intervention for his long-standing Mitral Valve Disease. His condition was critical, characterized by Mitral Valve Prolapse with severe regurgitation, moderate Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension, and biventricular dysfunction. Biventricular dysfunction presents a multifaceted challenge with significant implications for patient outcomes. When both the left and right ventricles fail to function optimally, it can lead to compromised cardiac performance, impaired circulation, and ultimately, increased complications and death. He underwent Robotic Mitral Valve Replacement (MVR) with a mechanical valve. The entire procedure, completed in a mere 29 minutes, marked a remarkable feat in cardiac surgery. Post-operative recovery unfolded seamlessly, devoid of any complications, and he was discharged on postoperative day 3. The decision to proceed with Robotic Mitral Valve Replacement yielded remarkable results, highlighting the potential benefits of innovative surgical techniques in mitigating the complexities associated with advanced cardiac pathologies. Dr Sathyaki Nambala, Chief Cardiac Surgeon at Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore, remarked, “At Apollo Hospitals, our dedicated team of cardiologists, nurses, and technicians work together to provide comprehensive care that addresses the full spectrum of heart diseases. The robotic Mitral valve replacement, which we now perform routinely, exemplifies how advanced technology and a multidisciplinary approach can transform complex cardiac surgeries into efficient, life-saving procedures. Completing this procedure in just 29 minutes is a testament to the robotic expertise of our team here as well as our commitment to excellence in patient care.” In an era where cardiac surgery often involves lengthy procedures and recovery times, this achievement serves as a beacon of hope for patients globally. Apollo Hospitals has performed over 150 such robotic mitral valve replacements to date, reinforcing India’s status as a global leader in advanced cardiac care. Dr. Manish Mattoo, Regional CEO, Karnataka and Central Region, Apollo Hospitals, added, “We are deeply committed to providing healthcare of international standards at an affordable cost. Typically, a robotic surgery like this takes no less than 90 minutes. However, the immense expertise and training our team undergoes here has made this second nature for them, where they can produce excellent results in a shorter time. By integrating the latest technology and adopting a patient-centric approach, we strive to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. Our goal is to continue strengthening our robotic cardiology program, leveraging innovations to provide timely and effective cardiac care to a broader population.” The patient’s recovery was smooth with no complications, allowing him to be discharged promptly. He has since returned to Yemen and is leading a normal life. This case underscores the potential benefits of innovative surgical techniques in addressing complex cardiac conditions and highlights the compassionate, patient-focused care provided at Apollo Hospitals.