Dr. Krishna Prasad Vunnam, Founder & MD at Ankura Hospital
Dr. Krishna Prasad Vunnam, an Indian entrepreneur, neonatologist, and pediatrician, founded Ankura Hospitals for Women and Children in 2011, propelling it to be South India's fastest-growing healthcare brand. With expertise in premature baby care, advanced newborn ventilation, and parental nutrition, KP amplified Ankura's prominence within nine years. Holding an MBBS from Rajiv Gandhi University, he pursued Child Health and Neonatology diplomas at the University of Sydney and Sydney Children’s Hospital. KP champions digital healthcare solutions for patient-centric care, exemplifying Ankura's commitment to accessible, cost-effective, and top-quality women and child health services.
In an Interaction with India Pharma Outlook, Dr. Krishna Prasad Vunnam outlines how Neonatal care has evolved with advancements in medical technology and cites some major prominent technologies that are at the forefront of women's healthcare.
Neonatal care has come a long way in recent years, with advancements in medical technology and innovative approaches transforming the landscape of newborn healthcare. In India, where the rate of preterm births and neonatal mortality has been a longstanding concern, the focus on improving neonatal care has never been more critical. With growing advancements, we can now achieve positive health outcomes in many challenging situations, which was once a farfetched dream. Let’s discuss some of the many innovations and prospects in this field.
One of the most significant developments in neonatal care is the integration of telemedicine and remote monitoring technologies. In a vast country like India, where access to specialized healthcare can be a challenge, telemedicine allows healthcare professionals to remotely monitor and assess the health of premature infants. Real-time data transmission, including vital signs and physiological parameters, enables early detection of complications, reducing the risk of adverse outcomes.
AI has found its way into neonatal care, offering a more personalized and precise approach to treatment. Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of medical data to predict and diagnose conditions in newborns. AI applications are being developed to interpret medical imaging, such as brain scans, to detect abnormalities and neurological conditions early on. This technology can potentially revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of neonatal diseases in the future.
Respiratory distress syndrome is a common challenge faced by premature infants. Innovations in respiratory support systems, including high-frequency ventilation and non-invasive ventilation techniques, improve outcomes for newborns with respiratory complications. These advancements aim to provide gentle and effective respiratory support, reducing the risk of long-term respiratory issues in neonates.
The physical environment and care practices within NICUs are evolving to enhance the overall well-being of premature infants. NICU designs now prioritize family-centered care, recognizing the importance of parental involvement in the neonatal healing process. Private family spaces, developmental care practices, and efforts to minimize stressors for both infants and parents contribute to a more nurturing and supportive NICU environment. Strict protocols and better infection control measures have helped reduce the antibiotic requirement, thereby minimizing side effects and preventing future antibiotic resistance.
Stem cell therapy holds immense promise in treating various neonatal conditions, particularly those related to neurological and developmental issues. Research in this field is exploring the use of stem cells to repair damaged tissues and promote healing in newborns with conditions such as hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. While still in the early stages, the potential of stem cell therapy in neonatal care is an exciting avenue for future research and development.
Advancements in genomic medicine are paving the way for personalized neonatal care. Genetic testing allows healthcare professionals to identify potential genetic disorders and tailor treatment plans accordingly. This not only aids in early diagnosis but also enables the development of targeted therapies that are more effective and have fewer side effects.
With advances in healthcare, it is now possible to predict preterm birth and upcoming challenges in neonates. In case of any such prediction in utero, transfer can be scheduled for the mother-to-be and the developing fetus to a center with full-fledged and advanced neonatal facilities. By this early care is initiated in the golden hour that can be lifesaving. Nonetheless, if the neonate is required to be transported to a higher center post-birth, then the advanced ambulances with all facilities for critical care, including ventilation support, are a boon for management in the early hours.
Nutritional support is crucial for the growth and development of preterm infants. A significant innovation in nutrition has been the development of breastmilk banks. In case a new mother is unable to feed, safe breastmilk from these banks can help the neonate get the required nutrition that works wonders for their health. Innovations in neonatal nutrition also include specialized formulas that mimic the composition of human breast milk, fortifying it with essential nutrients for preterm infants. Additionally, research is ongoing to understand the unique nutritional needs of different populations, considering factors such as regional dietary habits and genetic variations.
A convergence of technological advancements, medical breakthroughs, and a growing understanding of the unique needs of premature infants marks the future of neonatal care in India. The recent and upcoming advancements collectively contribute to a more holistic and effective approach to neonatal healthcare. As more innovations continue to unfold, the landscape of neonatal care in India is poised for a transformative journey, offering hope and better outcomes for the tiniest members of our society.
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