Graded Drug Challenge successfully done on 2 patients at JLNM Hospital

Srinagar, Aug 22: JLNM Hospital at Rainawari successfully completed a Graded Drug Challenge for two patients in a single day, marking a significant milestone in drug allergy management.

Medicos said the procedure was necessitated by the urgent need for surgery in both patients, whose operations had been postponed due to multiple drug allergies.

They said the patients, both females in their thirties, were diagnosed with Multiple Drug Allergy Syndrome, presenting a complex challenge for the surgical team. After a thorough evaluation, the Graded Drug Challenge was meticulously carried out for six different drugs on the same day for each patient.

“This rare and demanding procedure was led by Dr. Taha Ashraf, an Allergy Specialist, and Dr. M. Naveed, with essential support from Dr. Shahzada, and Dr. Arifa, Heads of the Departments of Medicine and Anesthesiology, respectively. The success of the procedure also reflects the unwavering support of the hospital administration led by Dr Tariq Jan , the Medical Superintendent of the hospital.”

Giving details of the procedure, Dr Taha Ashraf said "the successful completion of this challenge has cleared the path for their surgeries, which are now scheduled to proceed within the next couple of days. "

"This accomplishment is particularly noteworthy as it represents the first instance of such a multi-drug clearance being achieved in a single day anywhere in secondary care level in the country. The patients have now been delabeled from being allergic to anesthesia and pain killer drugs, a crucial step that allows them to undergo their much-needed surgeries. "

“JLNM Hospital is proud to be the only secondary care facility in the country offering this specialized procedure regularly. This service not only spares patients from the high costs associated with corporate hospitals but also underscores the hospital's commitment to advancing healthcare accessibility and excellence.”

Director Health Services Kashmir Dr Jahangir Bakhshi has lauded the team for achieving the feat and assured all his support and guidance for such efforts.