Mumbai: Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre has successfully treated a 49-year-old woman, who developed severe, life-threatening complications following bariatric surgery. Referred in a critical condition, her case was managed through a timely, coordinated decision by Jaslok’s multidisciplinary team to perform a high-risk corrective surgery.
In today’s times, the importance of such hospitals has grown immensely, as patients often face multiple complex problems that demand immediate and combined expertise.
In February 2025, the patient underwent bariatric surgery in Ahmedabad. Three months later, she developed severe complications and was admitted to two different hospitals in Navi Mumbai for emergency care, where she underwent emergency laparotomy (abdominal surgery to open and examine the abdomen) for a perforated gastro-jejunostomy ulcer (a hole at the stomach–small intestine connection).
Her recovery was further complicated by acute kidney injury (sudden kidney failure) and a cardiac arrest (heart stopped beating).
Despite aggressive treatment, her condition worsened with gastric leaks (stomach contents leaking out), wound dehiscence (surgical wound reopening), and respiratory distress (difficulty in breathing). In desperation, her family contacted Dr. Sanjay Borude for help.
Recognising the gravity of her condition, Dr. Borude advised an urgent transfer to Jaslok.
By the time she arrived in May 2025, the patient required BIPAP (non-invasive breathing support), high-flow nasal cannula (oxygen delivery system), and intensive monitoring. A multidisciplinary team led by Dr. Pinak Pandya, Chief Intensivist, stabilised her with targeted antibiotics, thyroid management, nutrition support, and wound care.
Once her condition improved, surgery was performed under the leadership of Dr. Sanjay Borude, supported by Dr. Rahul Borude and Dr. Jaydeep Palep, with anaesthesia care by Dr. Prerna Gomes, Additional Director Anaesthesiology. Intra-operatively, the team found a plastered abdomen with adhesions (organs stuck together), pus pockets (infection collection), and a gastric perforation (hole in stomach).
Under Dr. Borude’s direction, the perforation was meticulously repaired, reinforced with omentum (natural fat covering of the abdomen), and drains were placed for recovery.
Post-operatively, she required advanced care including imaging (CT scans, X-rays), endoscopic procedures (camera-based internal checks), fistula clipping (closing abnormal passages), and pleural effusion drainage (removing fluid around lungs).
Persistent infections, including Candida auris (drug-resistant fungal infection), were treated with guidance from Dr. Pankaj Dhawan, Consultant Gastroenterology, and Dr. Mala Kaneria, Consultant Infectious Diseases.
Blood transfusions, albumin therapy (protein supplementation), and cardiology input for arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) were provided until she stabilised and resumed oral intake. The patient was admitted for 64 days, battling between life and death, before finally recovering.
Dr. Sanjay Borude, Bariatric Surgeon, Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre,
“When I first examined the patient, her abdomen was in a very critical state, with severe infection, adhesions, and pus collections around the operated area. Each step of the surgery was high-risk and required precise judgment to clean the infection and repair the gastric perforation safely.
We reinforced the weak area and closed it carefully in layers to avoid further leaks. Seeing her gradually stabilise and regain strength has been very rewarding. I’m especially thankful to Dr. Rahul Borude and Dr. Jaydeep Palep for their invaluable support throughout the procedure.”
Dr. Pinank Pandya, Chief Intensivist, Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre,
"This case was extremely complex from the outset, as the patient was already in critical condition with multiple organ complications. Our primary focus was to stabilise her respiratory and hemodynamic status while coordinating with various specialties to manage infections, nutrition, and wound care.
The success of this case lies in seamless teamwork, rapid decision-making, and continuous monitoring, which ultimately enabled us to bring the patient back from a life-threatening situation."
Dr. Milind Khadke, Chief Medical Officer, Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre,
“This was one of the most challenging post-bariatric cases we have encountered in recent years. The patient arrived with life-threatening leaks, widely gaping surgical wound, and persistent infections, requiring immediate, coordinated intervention.
Every decision, from stabilising critical complications to guiding her through post-operative recovery, demanded vigilance, precision, and seamless teamwork across multiple specialties. Successfully navigating this case demonstrates Jaslok Hospital’s expertise in managing rare, high-risk emergencies with structured, multidisciplinary care tailored to each patient’s needs.”
Mr. Manoj Mehta, Patient’s husband,
“When we lost hope, we called Dr. Sanjay Borude and he guided us through the whole journey. I had lost hope of seeing her alive, but the doctors, nurses, and everyone at Jaslok worked like one robust team. They not only brought my wife back to life but also cared for her like one big family. I really thank Dr. Borude for saving my wife.”
