Mata Vaishno Devi Hospital achieves major milestone in pediatric cochlear implant

Srinagar, Nov 22: In a remarkable achievement for the region, a 22-month-old girl successfully underwent cochlear implant surgery today at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital.

This milestone marks only the second time in north India that the advanced “SmartNav” electrode insertion monitoring software was utilized during the procedure, heralding a new era in patient care and precision surgery.

The surgery was performed by Dr Rohan Gupta, ENT Consultant at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital. Alongside that surgery, another cochlear implant procedure was successfully carried out on a two-year-old child.

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital has been a pioneer in this field, having initiated cochlear implant surgeries in 2017 and successfully treating close to 100 patients, including bilateral implants and cases as young as 14 months old.

Dr Rohan Gupta described the SmartNav software as a “game changer,” emphasising its role in enhancing surgical precision, reducing radiation exposure, and improving patient safety. He explained the software’s findings to parents post-surgery, who were overjoyed to see real-time data confirming the successful placement and functionality of the electrodes.

Dr M M Mathavan, Facility Director, highlighted that adopting cutting-edge technologies like SmartNav reflects the hospital’s unwavering commitment to delivering world-class healthcare, setting a benchmark in cochlear implant procedures in the region.

Dr Yashpal Sharma, Executive Director at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence, expressed pride in the hospital’s achievements and emphasized the Shrine Board’s role in making such advanced treatments available locally. He stated, “Thanks to the Shrine Board’s commitment, families no longer need to leave the state to seek specialized care for their children with hearing loss. Our focus has always been on enabling comprehensive, high-quality care here at home, allowing families to receive the best medical attention without the financial and emotional strain of traveling out of state.”

Dr Yashpal Sharma commended the hospital team for their dedication, saying, “With a skilled team and cutting-edge technology, the Cochlear Implant Program at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital has become a pillar of hope for families in the region. Our mission is not only to treat hearing loss but also to build a community where every child has the opportunity to thrive. We will continue to set new benchmarks in ENT and cochlear implant surgeries ensuring families have access to the best possible care

Dr Rohan Gupta expressed his deep gratitude to Dr Yashpal Sharma, acknowledging his guidance and support. “Dr Yashpal Sharma’s leadership has been crucial in the growth and success of our Cochlear Implant Program. His vision inspires us to keep advancing and to make a difference in the lives of children with hearing loss.”

This achievement reinforces Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital’s position as a leader in cochlear implant surgeries, transforming lives and helping families access world-class healthcare right here in the region.