Critically Ill Newborn Overcomes Life-Threatening Lung Condition After Intensive Neonatal Care

Thane successfully treated a critically ill newborn who was referred in an extremely serious condition after developing severe respiratory complications soon after birth.

The baby had aspirated meconium (the first stool) into her lungs at birth, leading to significant breathing difficulty, dangerously high lung pressure, and subsequently a severe infection. She was referred to KIMS Hospitals on the 10th day of life in shock and on a high-frequency ventilator, with oxygen levels fluctuating between 75–80%.

Transporting the newborn itself posed a major risk, as advanced ventilation support is not available in standard transport equipment. Despite the challenges, the neonatal team at KIMS Hospitals ensured a safe transfer and stabilised the baby on arrival.

Her journey in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) was long and complex. The baby required continuous close monitoring, frequent adjustments in ventilator settings, medications to support blood pressure, and round-the-clock care by the neonatal team. Even minor fluctuations in oxygen levels or vital signs demanded immediate medical intervention.

She remained on ventilator support for 30 days and required inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) therapy for 21 days to reduce high pressure in her lungs. Weaning her off oxygen was gradual and challenging, marked by periods of improvement as well as setbacks.

Commenting on the case, Dr Deepika Tiwari, Senior Consultant – Pediatrics and Neonatology, KIMS Hospitals, Thane, said,

“This baby had multiple life-threatening complications when she reached us. Managing such cases requires constant vigilance, timely decisions, and a highly skilled multidisciplinary team. Her recovery reflects not just medical science, but also perseverance and coordinated neonatal care.”

Dr Sachin Sakharkar, In-charge NICU (Neonatology) and Consultant Pediatrics, KIMS Hospitals, Thane, added,

“The baby’s condition was extremely unstable initially. Prolonged ventilator support, pulmonary hypertension management, and careful monitoring were key. Each day brought new challenges, but our team remained focused on giving her the best possible chance to survive and thrive.”

The treatment involved a dedicated team of neonatologists, paediatricians, nurses, respiratory therapists, and support staff, including Dr Rashmi Yemul, who played an integral role in the baby’s clinical management during her NICU stay.

After 38 days of intensive care, the newborn showed steady improvement and was finally discharged home, breathing on her own and feeding completely by mouth.

This case stands as a powerful example of how advanced neonatal care, teamwork, and unwavering commitment can help even the most critically ill newborns overcome overwhelming odds.