IGGMCH introduces bloodless pelvic surgery to reduce maternal mortality

Nagpur: Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital (IGGMCH), Nagpur, is pioneering a transformative approach to high-risk pelvic surgeries through the use of bilateral internal iliac artery balloon occlusion (blockage). This technique significantly reduces life-threatening bleeding risks, said dean Dr Ravi Chauhan. This innovation aligns with the 2024 World Health Day theme, ‘Reducing Maternal and Perinatal Mortality', by directly addressing preventable causes of maternal deaths, such as post-partum haemorrhage.

Spearheaded by interventional radiologists Dr Arpit Dhakate and Dr Dinesh Sharma, the procedure involves deploying temporary balloons via catheters to block pelvic blood flow during critical surgical phases. Guided by real-time imaging, their precision minimises disruption to circulation while creating a ‘bloodless field' for surgeons. Studies show this method reduces blood loss by up to 40% in complex obstetric cases like placenta accreta, a leading contributor to maternal mortality in India.

On World Health Day, April 7, IGGMCH Nagpur underscored its commitment to global health goals by organising workshops and awareness campaigns focused on maternal and perinatal care, the dean said. Dr Chauhan emphasised, "Celebrating World Health Day isn't symbolic — it's about actionable strategies. Our balloon occlusion program tackles post-partum haemorrhage head-on, saving mothers and newborns."

The hospital also launched training modules for rural healthcare workers to improve perinatal outcomes, aiming to reduce preventable deaths during childbirth. Dr Alka Patankar, unit incharge of obstetrics and gynaecology, highlighted the technique's impact, "In high-risk pregnancies, this procedure is a lifeline. By controlling bleeding, we protect both mother and child."

The success of this initiative hinges on seamless collaboration between interventional radiologists, surgeons, and anaesthesiologists. Preoperative imaging by Dr Dhakate and Dr Sharma ensures precise balloon placement, while intraoperative teamwork has reduced transfusion needs by 50%. Medical superintendent Dr Nitin Shende praised the hospital's culture of unity, "Innovations like this thrive when administration, clinicians, and support staff prioritise patient safety together." Dr Bhawna Sonawane, head of radiology, added, "Our department's advancements in imaging-guided interventions are key to scaling such life-saving techniques."

Looking ahead, IGGMCH plans to expand its hybrid operating rooms and interventional radiology training programme to make this technique accessible across Central India. Dr Patankar stressed, "Trust between specialties is non-negotiable. Every second counts in emergencies." Supported by visionary leadership and pioneers like Dr Dhakate and Dr Sharma, the hospital aims to set new benchmarks in maternal and surgical safety. As Dr Chauhan noted, "Reducing maternal mortality isn't just a goal — it's our duty." By merging cutting-edge technology with multidisciplinary teamwork, IGGMCH Nagpur is turning global health aspirations into tangible, life-saving realities for communities in need.

INFO

The procedure

* Deploying temporary balloons via catheters to block pelvic blood flow during critical surgical phases

* Guided by real-time imaging, precision placement of balloons minimises disruption to circulation during surgery

* Simultaneously, ‘bloodless field' is created for surgeons

* Studies show this method reduces blood loss by up to 40% in complex obstetric cases