Media Release
Mangaluru, Dec 3: The Department of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery at KMC Hospital Mangaluru, led by Dr Abhay T Kamath, consultant oral & maxillofacial surgeon, successfully performed a life changing multistage surgical reconstruction on a 5- year-old boy named Arav (name changed) who had been suffering from Temporo-Mandibular Joint Ankylosis, since infancy.
Since 5 years, Arav was unable to open his mouth due to a condition called Temporo Mandibular Joint Ankylosis, which leads to fusion of mouth opening joint to the skull base. As a result, ARAV was unable to eat solid food, speak clearly and had sleep related issues. This condition left him with a facial deformity due to the underdeveloped lower jaw leading to significant social stigma.
Dr Abhay T Kamath, consultant oral & maxillo-facial surgeon, KMC Hospital, Ambedkar Circle, Mangaluru performed the surgery and was supported by Dr Adarsh K, Prof & head of OMFS, MCODS, Manipal. Dr Vasudev Das, KMC Mangaluru, Dr Soundarya, Paediatrician, Dr Frida, Dept of Anaesthesia. Dr Madhav Kamath, consultant CTVS , KMCH, Mangaluru performed Costochondral grafting.
The first stage of surgery involved placing the external distractor surgically. Over the ensuing months, the device was activated at the Department of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery resulting in lengthening of lower jaw.
After 10 months, a second stage surgery was performed to release the ankylosis mass & grafting.
As of date, Arav is able to chew his food, speak clearly and face the society with a smile.
Dr Abhay T Kamath feels happy to have provided a better quality of life to Arav & his family.
Dr Kamath says, “We have not only revived his smile but also renewed his outlook towards life.” He adds that success of such complex surgery is not of the medical team alone. It is the endurance of the brave little boy to withstand the surgery. It is the hope & faith filled in his eyes that gazed upon us over a year now.
Dr Soundarya said timely coordinated care has transformed Arav’s life. To watch him rediscover the joy of eating, interacting and being a child again has been deeply fulfilling.
About Manipal Hospitals
As a pioneer in healthcare, Manipal Hospitals is among the top healthcare providers in India serving over 8 million patients annually, with a focus on providing affordable, high-quality healthcare services. Manipal’s integrated network today has a pan-India footprint of 49 hospitals across 24 cities with 12,600 licensed beds, and a talented pool of 11,000+ doctors and an employee strength of over 34000.
Manipal Hospitals provides comprehensive curative and preventive care for a multitude of patients from around the globe. Manipal Hospitals is AAHRPP accredited and most of the hospitals in its network are NABH, NABL, ER, Blood Bank accredited and recognised for Nursing Excellence.