Shimla, Sept 9,
In a remarkable advancement for pediatric healthcare in Himachal Pradesh, Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) Shimla has successfully conducted its first thoracoscopic repair of a left hemidiaphragm eventration in a five-month-old infant. The procedure marks a new chapter in the adoption of minimally invasive surgical techniques for children in the state.
The infant, born preterm with a birth weight of 2.8 kg, was admitted with recurring chest infections, rapid breathing, and episodes of oxygen desaturation. Following referral from Rippon Hospital to the Pediatrics Department at IGMC, investigations confirmed diaphragmatic eventration — a condition where weakened or abnormal diaphragm function hampers breathing.
The pioneering surgery was performed by the Pediatric Surgery team led by Dr. Raj Kumar, with the assistance of Dr. Kamal Kant Sharma, Dr. Naveen Thakur, R.K. Negi, Dr. Manjit, Dr. Pradeep, and Dr. Ram Lok. Unlike conventional open surgery, the team opted for a thoracoscopic approach — a technically challenging but minimally invasive procedure carried out through small keyhole incisions.
“This technique significantly reduces trauma, speeds up recovery, and minimizes post-operative complications, though performing it in infants requires precision due to limited space and diaphragm movement,” the surgeons explained.
Anesthesia was administered under the guidance of Dr. S. Sodhi and Dr. Dara Singh Negi, while post-operative recovery was closely monitored in the Pediatric Surgery Nursing Unit under Ward Sister Reeta. The infant made a safe recovery and was discharged in stable condition.
Dr. Raj Kumar, Head of Pediatric Surgery, termed the operation a landmark achievement. “Early diagnosis and timely surgical correction of such diaphragmatic disorders are crucial to prevent repeated infections and reduce mortality. This success establishes IGMC’s capability to take on complex pediatric cases through advanced minimally invasive methods,” he said.
The doctors emphasized that the breakthrough paves the way for wider adoption of thoracoscopic and other minimal access techniques for pediatric patients in Himachal Pradesh, offering young patients safer treatment options with quicker healing.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
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