Initiation of Plasmapheresis in Dr RPMC Tanda, first of its kind in Himachal: Dr Bhanu Awasthi

Dharamsala, June 2, 2023: Plasmapheresis, a specialized medical procedure, has been successfully initiated at Dr. RP Medical College in Tanda, Himachal Pradesh. Dr. Bhanu Awasthi, the Principal of the institute, congratulated the Department of Neurology and Nephrology for performing this important and challenging procedure, which is the first of its kind at the Tanda facility, making it the only facility in Himachal Pradesh offering this treatment option

The procedure was carried out on a 19-year-old female patient who was admitted to the Department of Neurology with symptoms of sudden back pain, lower limb paralysis, upper limb weakness, and loss of bladder and bowel control. The patient was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder where antibodies were attacking her own nervous system. Treatment was initiated by Dr. Amit Bhardwaj, the Head of the Department of Neurology, and his team, resulting in some improvement. However, further urgent treatment was required.

After discussing the case with Dr. Abhinav Rana, a Nephrologist, it was decided to initiate plasma exchange for the patient. Alternate-day plasma exchange was started, leading to significant improvement. The patient is now able to move her legs, and doctors are optimistic about her complete recovery.

The plasmapheresis procedure was performed by a team comprising Dr. Amit Bhardwaj, the Neurologist, and Dr. Abhinav Rana, the Nephrologist, along with their respective teams. This marks the first time that such therapy has been initiated at Dr. RP Medical College in Tanda, making it the only facility in Himachal Pradesh offering this treatment option. The introduction of this therapy is expected to benefit the people of the state, providing hope for patients suffering from autoimmune diseases.

Dr. Bhanu highlighted that the medical college is continuously expanding its range of services to cater to the needs of the local population. The institution is committed to delivering super specialty services and reducing the burden on patients who would otherwise need to seek healthcare outside the state. The goal is to make a wide range of procedures available at Dr. RP Govt. Medical College in Tanda, ensuring accessible and quality healthcare for the community.