Mangaluru: In a rare and extraordinary event, a couple from Telangana residing in Mangaluru, Mr. Teja and Mrs. Banoth Durga, were blessed with quadruplets at Father Muller Medical College Hospital. Their journey, marked by determination and the expertise of the hospital’s medical team, has been a beacon of hope and resilience.
Why quadruplets are extraordinary
Quadruplet pregnancies are an exceptional rarity, with natural occurrences estimated at 1 in 700,000 pregnancies. Such cases bring unique challenges, including a high risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and the need for advanced neonatal care. Managing these pregnancies requires meticulous antenatal planning and a multidisciplinary medical approach.
The journey of hope and resilience
The couple’s journey began with an unexpected diagnosis of quadruplets during a routine ultrasound. Led by Dr. Joylene D’Almeida, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist, the pregnancy was closely monitored. Despite the risks and initial shock, the couple chose to continue with the pregnancy rather than opt for fetal reduction.
An exceptional team of specialists, including fetal medicine experts Dr. Muralidar, Dr. Ram Basti, and Dr. Mahesh, alongside the obstetric team led by HOU Dr. Sujaya V Rao and team members Dr. Vismaya, Dr. Ektha, Dr. Diya, and Dr. Nayana, provided dedicated care. The operation theatre team, including Preksha and Reshma, ensured a seamless delivery process.
A challenging cesarean delivery
At 30 weeks of gestation, Mrs. Banoth underwent an elective cesarean section due to her prior cesarean history. She delivered two girls and two boys, each requiring neonatal resuscitation and intensive care. Dr. Chandana Pai, Consultant Paediatrician, led the neonatal resuscitation team, ensuring timely care for the newborns.
The quadruplets weighed 1.1 kg, 1.2 kg, 800 g, and 900 g at birth, necessitating immediate NICU care. The pediatric team, led by Dr. Praveen B K, played a vital role in their survival and steady progress.
Exceptional neonatal care in the NICU
The babies thrived under the meticulous monitoring and timely interventions provided in the NICU. This exemplary care ensured that the quadruplets grew stronger each day, marking a significant medical achievement for the hospital.
Significance for Mangaluru and beyond
Natural quadruplet pregnancies are exceedingly rare in India, particularly in Dakshina Kannada. This case stands out for its rarity and the successful outcome achieved through collaborative care involving obstetric, pediatric, and neonatal expertise.
A testament to expertise and compassion
The successful delivery and care of the quadruplets underscore the advanced medical capabilities of Father Muller Medical College Hospital. It also highlights the importance of early diagnosis, holistic care, and the unwavering commitment of medical professionals in managing high-risk pregnancies.