The Army Hospital Research and Referral (R&R) at Delhi Cantt. has successfully done a Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) on a 7-year-old child. The child was suffering from a rare primary immunodeficiency disorder. This is an extraordinary medical achievement.
Doctors in the Department of Hematology and Stem Cell Transplant at Army Hospital (R&R) situated at Delhi Cantt. has successfully conducted BMT for the first time. This ground-breaking procedure was performed on a 7-year-old child Master Sushant Paudel. Moreover, it opened the doors of hope for more children and families facing similar challenges.
Sushant Paudel is the son of Sepoy Pradeep Paudel. He was diagnosed with a rare primary immunodeficiency disorder at the age of one year. This immunodeficiency severely compromised his immune system. Additionally, he was prone to repeated life-threatening infections and other complications.
Referred to Army Hospital (R&R) six months back
Sushant Paudel was referred to the Army Hospital (R&R) at Delhi Cantt. six months back. He did not have an HLA-matched sibling donor. With the vigorous efforts of the team of the Department of Hematology, they succeded in finding a suitable Matched Unrelated Donor (MUD).
The MUD Transplant was carried out on the 30th of November 2023. This procedure involved harvesting healthy stem cells from an HLA-compatible donor, after destroying Sushant’s defective cells by a high dose of Chemotherapy. Thus successfully replacing defective cells with healthy ones. The family of Sushant Paudel expressed their gratitude and optimism for the future.
Responses of Doctors at AHRR
After a successful Bone Marrow Transplant at Army Hospital (R&R) in short AHRR for the first time the Doctors expressed their feelings.
“It’s a moment of great pride and satisfaction for the entire medical faternity at AHRR and this patient is a success story due to the team efforts.”
Lt Gen Ajith Nilakantan- The Commandent at AHRR
“Sushant Paudel’s journey has been nothing short of miraculous. This achievement is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our dedicated medical team, the unwavering support of Sushant’s family, and the generosity of the donor. To our knowledge, this is the first such transplant for this immunodeficiency in India.”
Brig Rajan Kapoor – The HOD at the Hematology department
“Only 1 in 5 patients have a sibling with a full HLA match. The availability of HLA matched Unrelated donor stem cells, sourced in this patient from DATRI, is truly a game changer for such patients suffering from a life-threatening immunodeficiency disorder.”
Col Rajiv Kumar – Senior Advisor in the Hematology department
“The presence of multiple active infections at the time of the transplant made this a very challenging and high-risk transplant.”
Lt Col Sanjeev Khera – Pediatric Hematologist at AHRR
History of Indian Army Hospital
The history of Indian Army Hospitals is intertwined with the evolution of the Army Medical Corps (AMC) itself. Evidently, it’s a long and fascinating journey, marked by dedication, innovation, and adaptation to changing times.
The East India Company established rudimentary medical facilities for its troops, often relying on local healers and European surgeons. Afterwards, the first dedicated military hospital in India was likely built in Madras (Chennai) in the late 18th century.
Formation of the Army Medical Corps:
1881: The Army Hospital Corps was established by incorporating members of disbanded British regimental hospitals, mostly comprised of menials. As a result, this marked the rudimentary beginnings of a dedicated medical corps for the Indian Army.
1918: Station Hospitals for Indian troops were sanctioned, recognizing the need for proper medical facilities for native soldiers.
1920: The Indian Hospital Corps was formed by combining the Army Hospital Corps and the Army Bearer Corps. Additionally, this marked a significant step towards a more organized and efficient medical service for the Indian Army.
World Wars and Independence:
World Wars I and II: The AMC played a crucial role in treating wounded soldiers during these wars. Moreover, new technologies and advancements in medicine were adopted, leading to improved healthcare for troops.
1943: The Indian Medical Service, the Indian Medical Department, and the Indian Hospital & Nursing Corps were amalgamated to form the Army Medical Corps, a homogeneous corps of officers and men.
1947: After India’s independence, the AMC continued to serve the Indian Army with distinction, participating in various conflicts and peacekeeping missions.
Post-Independence Era:
The AMC has grown significantly since independence, with over 112 military hospitals, 12 air force hospitals, and 10 naval hospitals spread across the country. These hospitals provide comprehensive medical care to soldiers, their families, and veterans. They are also at the forefront of medical research and development, contributing to advancements in various fields.
The Army Hospital Research and Referral (AHRR) in Delhi is a prime example of the AMC’s commitment to excellence. Above all, it is a state-of-the-art medical facility with cutting-edge technology and specialists in various disciplines.