Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre has saved the life of a 49-year-old woman who suffered severe post-operative complications after bariatric surgery. The patient, Mrs. Rekha Mehta (name changed), arrived in critical condition but recovered thanks to quick decisions, advanced care, and the teamwork of specialists at Jaslok. This case highlights why such hospitals are vital in today’s world, where patients often face complex medical challenges that require immediate, multi-specialty treatment.
The patient first underwent bariatric surgery in Ahmedabad in February 2025. Three months later, she developed life-threatening complications and was admitted to two hospitals in Navi Mumbai. Emergency surgery was performed to repair a perforated gastro-jejunostomy ulcer – a hole where the stomach connects to the small intestine. Her condition, however, worsened. She suffered acute kidney injury, cardiac arrest, and further complications including gastric leaks, reopened surgical wounds, and breathing difficulties.
With her health rapidly declining, her family contacted bariatric surgeon Dr. Sanjay Borude for help. Realising the seriousness of her condition, he advised an urgent transfer to Jaslok Hospital. By May 2025, when she was admitted, the patient required non-invasive breathing support (BIPAP), a high-flow oxygen system, and intensive monitoring.
At Jaslok, a multidisciplinary team led by Dr. Pinak Pandya, Chief Intensivist, stabilised her with targeted antibiotics, thyroid care, nutrition, and wound management. Once her condition improved, corrective surgery was performed under the leadership of Dr. Sanjay Borude, assisted by Dr. Rahul Borude and Dr. Jaydeep Palep, with anaesthesia managed by Dr. Prerna Gomes, Additional Director Anaesthesiology.
During surgery, doctors discovered a plastered abdomen with adhesions, pus pockets, and a dangerous gastric perforation. Under Dr. Borude’s direction, the perforation was repaired, reinforced with omentum (a natural fat layer in the abdomen), and drains were placed to support recovery.
After surgery, her recovery required intense care. She underwent CT scans, X-rays, endoscopic checks, fistula clipping, and drainage of pleural effusion (fluid around the lungs). Persistent infections, including Candida auris – a drug-resistant fungal infection – were treated with the guidance of Dr. Pankaj Dhawan, Consultant Gastroenterology, and Dr. Mala Kaneria, Consultant Infectious Diseases. Additional support included blood transfusions, albumin therapy, and cardiac treatment for irregular heartbeats. After spending 64 days in hospital, battling life-threatening complications, she finally stabilised and could resume oral intake.
Quoting the doctors and family:
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 (Name Changed), 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.”
This extraordinary recovery story underlines Jaslok Hospital’s commitment to advanced, multidisciplinary care and its role in handling some of the most critical and high-risk cases.
