The Paediatric Surgery Department at AIIMS New Delhi achieved a groundbreaking feat by successfully performing Bilateral Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty on a three-month-old, making the baby the youngest patient in the world to undergo this procedure.
Simply put, the infant had a congenital condition that blocked the urinary tract, affecting urine flow from the kidneys to the bladder. Doctors carried out a rare and complex laparoscopic surgery to treat the condition.
Traditionally, each affected kidney was treated in separate surgeries. However, the surgical team, led by Dr. Vishesh Jain, chose a laparoscopic approach to operate on both kidneys at once—minimizing invasiveness while maximizing benefits.
Before the procedure, the team engaged in extensive planning to ensure the best possible outcome. A miniature camera inserted through the navel improved cosmetic results, and strategically placed incisions allowed for bilateral access without reusing the same entry points.
During the two-hour operation, the team carefully reconstructed the obstructed ureteropelvic junction using microscopic sutures and fine instruments. Enhanced by magnified, video-assisted technology, the surgeons navigated the delicate anatomy of the three-month-old patient with precision.
Special consideration was given to anesthesia, with experienced anesthesiologists at AIIMS designing a tailored plan to ensure the child's safety and comfort throughout the procedure. The child was discharged within three days, allowing for a quick return to family life and reducing both disruption and financial burden.
Dr. Vishesh Jain expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, noting that follow-up evaluations a few months later confirmed excellent cosmetic results—with barely visible scars at six months. He stated, "Performing Bilateral Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty on a three-month-old child showcases the advancements in paediatric surgery. Our success demonstrates the dedication and expertise of our team, as well as AIIMS' commitment to providing cutting-edge care to patients of all ages."
In addition to the positive outcome for the infant, this laparoscopic approach eliminated the need for future surgeries by addressing the UPJO condition early, sparing the child from potential complications and further interventions. AIIMS’ accomplishment in performing bilateral laparoscopic pyeloplasty on the world's youngest patient marks a significant milestone in the surgical management of infants and sets a new global standard for treating such young patients.