PUNE: Cancer treatment has evolved dramatically over the last decade, transitioning toward precise, patient-centric, and technologically sophisticated interventions. Although cancers such as breast, lung, and colorectal remain prevalent, the healthcare sector has observed a notable increase in challenging-to-diagnose cancers, including pancreatic and liver cancers. Cancer cases are rising rapidly in India. According to the recent ICMR report, between 2012 and 2022, cancer incidence increased by 36%, rising from 1.01 million in 2012 to 1.38 million in 2022. Similarly, cancer-related deaths also exhibited a rise of 30.3%. Globally, India ranks third in terms of cancer cases (13.8 lakh) and second in cancer-related deaths (8.9 lakh), with a rate of 121 cases per 1,00,000 population. The likelihood of developing cancer is higher among the older population compared to younger age groups. Today’s cancer therapies encompass advanced methodologies like immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and AI-driven diagnostic tools that facilitate personalized treatment plans. However, persistent challenges like treatment resistance and the need for extensive supportive care continue to confront oncologists and patients alike.

In line with this evolving landscape, Sahyadri Hospitals has announced the launch of ‘Beaming Hope’, a pioneering cancer patient support group aimed at enhancing comprehensive cancer care across Maharashtra. This landmark initiative underscores Sahyadri’s commitment to not only advancing medical treatment but also significantly improving the patient journey through compassion, innovation, and collaboration.

The launch of ‘Beaming Hope’ marks a significant step in Sahyadri Hospitals’ mission to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care that goes beyond medical treatment. This initiative is designed to address the emotional, psychological, and practical needs of cancer patients throughout their treatment journey. ‘Beaming Hope’ aims to provide a safe space for patients to connect with others who are undergoing similar experiences, creating a sense of community and offering peer support.

Dr. Sunil Rao, Chief Operating Officer and Medical Director, of Sahyadri Group of Hospitals, said, “Cancer care is no longer just about survival, but about ensuring a better quality of life throughout and after treatment. With the launch of ‘Beaming Hope’, we are addressing the emotional, mental, and physical aspects of cancer treatment. By offering a robust support system, we can help patients not only survive but thrive during their cancer journey. Our holistic approach ensures that patients have the emotional and social support they need at every stage.”

The group will facilitate connections between patients, survivors, caregivers, and medical professionals, allowing for shared experiences and providing valuable insights into managing the physical and emotional challenges of cancer care. Dr. Vinod Gore, Surgical Oncologist at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Deccan Gymkhana, emphasized, “The cancer journey is filled with emotional and mental challenges. ‘Beaming Hope’ creates a space where patients can share their fears and triumphs, providing them with the confidence to face each day. By addressing these aspects, the initiative ensures that patients and their caregivers are fully supported throughout the treatment process. It is not just about treating the disease but also providing a supportive environment where no one feels alone.”

“To further enhance the patient experience, Sahyadri Hospitals has introduced the Varian TrueBeam system, an advanced radiotherapy technology that significantly improves the precision and speed of cancer treatment. “The Varian TrueBeam system marks a major advancement in how we deliver radiotherapy,” said Dr. Tushar Patil, Medical Oncologist at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Deccan Gymkhana. “With its ability to track tumors that move during breathing, such as those in the lungs or abdomen, TrueBeam ensures that we can target tumors with greater accuracy, reducing treatment time and patient discomfort.”

Dr. Jagadish Shejul, Radiation Oncologist at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Deccan Gymkhana, shared, “By combining the support of the Beaming Hope group and advanced treatment with the Varian TrueBeam system, we have successfully treated more than 25 patients so far. TrueBeam allows us to target tumors with sub-millimeter-level precision, which is especially critical when tumors are located near sensitive areas of the brain. One remarkable case involved a 75-year-old retired military officer diagnosed with a complex, non-invasive, benign brain tumor. The tumor’s location was particularly challenging, as it was near the brain region responsible for controlling hand and leg movement. Given the patient’s age and the complexity of the case, the HyperArc and surface-guided imaging radiotherapy provided a safer and more effective treatment solution. Unlike traditional invasive procedures, this advanced technique offered precise treatment while eliminating the risk of paralysis. The needle-free, scar-free approach ensured quicker results, minimal impact on healthy tissues, and provided the patient with a safe, comfortable, and satisfying experience.”

With the introduction of ‘Beaming Hope’ and the Varian TrueBeam system, Sahyadri Hospitals continues to lead the way in comprehensive, patient-focused cancer care. These initiatives reinforce the hospital’s commitment to not only advancing medical technology but also ensuring that cancer patients are supported both physically and emotionally throughout their journey.

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BENGALURU: Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road successfully treated a 64-year-old male from Madagascar, suffering from Triple Vessel Coronary Artery disease (blockage in three major arteries), an enlarged prostate, and multiple co-morbidities. A multidisciplinary team of Doctors – Dr. Sudarshan G T, Senior Consultant – Cardio Thoracic Vascular Surgery, Dr Srinivas Prasad, Senior Consultant – Interventional Cardiology and Dr Mohan Keshavamurthy, Senior Director – Urology, Uro-Oncology, Uro-Gynaecology, Andrology, Transplant & Robotic Surgery along with a Vascular Surgeon, ENT Specialist, Endocrinologist, Nephrologist and a Pain & Palliative Specialist treated the patient.

Patient Ramesh (name changed), a cancer survivor and a double amputee, faced a dire health crisis a month ago when he complained of chest pain and shortness of breath. An angiogram – a crucial imaging test that reveals the condition of blood vessels, was performed in Madagascar, which revealed reduced blood flow to the heart (Acute Coronary Syndrome) leading to heart attack and reduced blood flow to the rest of the body (Acute Left Ventricular Failure) highlighting an urgent need for a bypass surgery. However, the conventional bypass surgery was not feasible for Ramesh due to the amputation of both his legs, which meant he lacked viable veins for grafting. Additionally, his severe mobility restrictions, relying entirely on an electric wheelchair, further complicated the matter. Faced with these challenges and the lack of advanced medical technology in his country to address such a complex case, Ramesh sought the expertise of doctors at Fortis Bannerghatta Road for advanced treatment and a chance for improved health.

Upon admission at Fortis Bannerghatta, a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation revealed multiple co-morbidities including triple vessel coronary artery disease, diabetes, acute kidney failure, and an enlarged prostate. Due to financial constraints, hemodynamic-assisted angioplasty – a minimally invasive procedure to improve blood flow through blocked or narrowed arteries was not a viable option. Consequently, Dr Sudarshan and Dr Srinivas recommended a hybrid surgical approach combining traditional open surgery with minimally invasive techniques. The treatment plan involved a robot-assisted minimally invasive bypass grafting (MIDCAB, or Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery), followed by a Rotablation atherectomy assisted Angioplasty with Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI). Dr Mohan

Keshavamurthy suggested a UroLift procedure to address the enlarged prostate, while diabetes and kidney failure were managed by the respective specialists.

Explaining the procedure, Dr. Sudarshan G T, Senior Consultant – Cardio Thoracic Vascular Surgery, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road said, “Given the patient’s complex cardiovascular condition and the high risks associated with traditional open-heart surgery, which requires a large incision in the chest, we opted for a minimally invasive approach called Robot-Assisted Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass (MIDCAB). This innovative treatment included a surgery designed to tackle one or more blocked arteries using tissues through small surgical cuts. It reduces both recovery time and surgical risks. The surgery took approximately 2 hours and once the patient was stabilized, he was scheduled for rotablation assisted angioplasty with Percutaneous Coronary Intervention – a non-surgical procedure to treat the blockages in the artery.”

Dr Srinivas Prasad, Consultant- Interventional Cardiology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road “We performed Rotablation assisted angioplasty with Percutaneous Coronary Intervention on the patient, during which a tiny, diamond-coated tool that rotates at high speed was used to grind away hard, calcium deposits inside arteries. After the calcium deposits are cleared, a catheter with a balloon at the tip is guided to the site of the blockage in the artery, thereby widening the artery and improving blood flow. A drug-releasing stent was then placed in the artery to keep it open after the balloon was removed. This drug is slowly released into the artery wall over time, preventing the regrowth of tissue within the artery. The procedure lasted for around 45 minutes to an hour. Following the procedure, the patient was monitored in the hospital for 3-4 days and then underwent a week of physiotherapy to aid in his recovery. This timely intervention significantly contributed to the patient’s recovery and overall health improvement. In the absence of these surgical interventions, in case the patient suffered another heart attack it would have been difficult for the patient to survive.”

Dr Mohan Keshavamurthy, Senior Director – Urology, Uro-Oncology, Uro-Gynaecology, Andrology, Transplant & Robotic Surgery at Fortis Hospitals, Bengaluru said, “Following the successful cardiac surgery, we proceeded with the UroLift procedure to address the patient’s enlarged prostate also known as Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH). BPH is a common condition that affects over 70% of men in their 60s. Although benign and unrelated to prostate cancer, BPH can significantly impact a man’s quality of life. As the prostate enlarges, it presses on and blocks the urethra (the tube through which urine leaves the body), potentially leading to permanent bladder damage if left untreated. To address this, we opted for the minimally invasive UroLift technique where 4 small implants were placed to gently lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra preventing blockage. This approach improves urine flow and preserves ejaculatory function without the need for more invasive surgery. Given the complexity of the patient’s medical condition, this technique was particularly well-suited and crucial to his overall recovery and well-being.”

Akshay Oleti, Business Head, Fortis Hospitals, Bengaluru said, “At Fortis Hospitals, our mission is to provide world-class medical care tailored to the unique needs of each patient. We are proud to have offered a comprehensive and innovative approach to Ramesh’s complex health challenges. By leveraging our advanced medical technologies and the expertise of our multidisciplinary team, we were able to deliver a seamless treatment experience. This case exemplifies our commitment to combining cutting-edge techniques with compassionate care to achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients.”

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