Breast reconstruction is a surgery to create a new breast shape. It may be done after cancer surgery to remove your whole breast which is mastectomy or part of the breast which is lumpectomy or breast-conserving surgery.

Gynaecological cancers are cancers that begin in a woman’s reproductive organs. These include the cervix, ovaries, uterus (womb), vagina, and vulva. Like many other cancers, early detection greatly increases the chances of successful treatment.

Types of Gynaecological Cancers

1. Cervical Cancer:
   Develops in the cervix, often caused by persistent infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). It can often be prevented with regular Pap smears and the HPV vaccine.
2. Ovarian Cancer:
   Starts in the ovaries and is often called the “silent killer” because it may not show symptoms in early stages. Common signs include abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, or feeling full quickly.
3. Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer:
   Begins in the lining of the uterus. It is most common in women after menopause. The most common symptom is abnormal vaginal bleeding.
4. Vaginal and Vulvar Cancer:
   Less common, but still important to be aware of. Look out for itching, pain, lumps, or sores in the vaginal or vulvar area.

Signs & Symptoms to Watch For

• Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge
• Pain during intercourse
• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Frequent bloating
• Unexplained weight loss
• Itching or sores in the vaginal/vulvar area

If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if they are persistent, talk to your doctor without delay.

What You Can Do

• Get regular screenings (such as Pap tests and pelvic exams)
• Take the HPV vaccine if eligible
• Be aware of family history of cancer
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle — exercise, eat a balanced diet, avoid tobacco
• Report any unusual symptoms early

When to See a Doctor

Don't ignore small signs. Many gynaecological cancers can be treated effectively if caught early. If you are over 30, postmenopausal, or have a family history of cancer, regular check-ups are crucial.

Protect Yourself with Knowledge

Being informed is your first step toward staying healthy. Gynaecological cancers are serious, but you can reduce your risk with awareness, screening, and preventive care.

Your health is in your hands — take charge today.

What is Neurosurgery?

Neurosurgery is a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis and surgical treatment of disorders of the brain, spine, and nervous system. Neurosurgeons manage both emergency and planned cases, often involving delicate and life-saving procedures.

When Should You See a Neurosurgeon?

• Persistent headache or seizures
• Sudden loss of balance or weakness
• Unexplained back or neck pain
• Numbness, tingling, or radiating pain in limbs
• Difficulty walking or controlling bladder/bowel
• Head injury with vomiting or unconsciousness

Nephrology – Patient Information Leaflet

What is Nephrology?

Nephrology is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of kidney-related diseases. A nephrologist is a doctor trained to manage conditions that affect how your kidneys function.

What Do Kidneys Do?

Your kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that:

• Filter waste and excess fluid from your blood
• Help control blood pressure
• Balance minerals like sodium, potassium, and calcium
• Produce hormones that help make red blood cells and keep your bones strong

 Common Kidney Conditions We Treat:

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
• Kidney stones
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filters)
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
• Diabetic and hypertension-related kidney problems
• End-stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring dialysis or transplant

Treatment Services Offered:

• Comprehensive kidney disease evaluation
• Dialysis (Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis)
• Kidney transplant support and follow-up
• Hypertension management
• Electrolyte and fluid balance correction
• Preventive care for diabetic and high blood pressure patients

When to See a Nephrologist:

• Swelling in your legs, feet, or face
• Fatigue or weakness
• Changes in urination (too much, too little, foamy, or bloody)
• High blood pressure that is hard to control
• Family history of kidney disease
• Abnormal kidney test results (e.g., high creatinine, low GFR)

 Our Team Approach:

Our nephrology team works closely with specialists in urology, endocrinology, and nutrition to offer coordinated, personalized care. We focus on both medical and lifestyle management to help you live better with kidney disease.

Follow-Up & Lifestyle Tips:

• Stay hydrated
• Limit salt and processed foods
• Monitor your blood pressure and sugar regularly
• Take medications as prescribed
• Attend regular check-ups to track kidney function

What is Neonatology?

Neonatology is a medical specialty that deals with the care of newborns, especially those who are premature, have low birth weight, or face medical challenges right after birth. Neonatologists are pediatricians with specialized training to care for critically ill or premature newborns.

When Does a Baby Need Neonatal Care?

Babies may require care in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for reasons such as:

• Prematurity (born before 37 weeks of gestation)
• Low birth weight (less than 2.5 kg)
• Breathing difficulties or respiratory distress
• Infections or congenital conditions
• Birth complications (e.g., delayed cry, poor muscle tone)
• Need for special feeding or temperature regulation

Facilities Available in a NICU:

• Advanced incubators for temperature and humidity control
• Mechanical ventilators and CPAP for respiratory support
• Phototherapy units for treating jaundice
• Monitors for tracking vital signs (heart rate, oxygen, blood pressure)
• Infusion pumps for precise delivery of fluids and medications
• Isolation units for infection control
• Specialized feeding techniques (tube feeding, expressed breast milk, etc.)

What Should Parents Expect?

• Daily updates from the neonatology team
• Guidance on breast milk expression and feeding support
• Opportunity to participate in the baby’s care (e.g., kangaroo care)
• Emotional and psychological support during the stay
• Education on newborn care before discharge

Post-Discharge Follow-up:

Even after discharge, some babies may require regular follow-up for:

• Growth and developmental milestones
• Nutrition and feeding assessments
• Immunizations
• Vision or hearing checks
• Management of any ongoing medical issues

If your newborn requires special care, trust the Neonatology Team at Fortis Hospital to provide comprehensive, compassionate, and expert support.

Social Anxiety Disorder

What is Social Anxiety Disorder?
Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), also known as social phobia, is a common mental health condition. It involves an intense, persistent fear of being watched and judged by others. This fear can affect work, school, and other day-to-day activities.

Common Symptoms:

• Intense fear in social situations
• Avoidance of social interactions
• Physical symptoms like blushing, sweating, trembling, or nausea
• Difficulty making eye contact
• Low self-esteem
• Worrying about embarrassment or humiliation

Causes:

• Genetic factors
• Environmental influences (e.g., bullying, family conflict)
• Overactive amygdala (the part of the brain that regulates fear response)

Diagnosis:

Social Anxiety Disorder is typically diagnosed through:

• Clinical interviews
• Mental health assessments
• Evaluation of symptoms persisting for six months or more

Treatment Options:

1. Psychotherapy:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is the most effective approach.
• Helps patients recognize and change negative thought patterns.

2. Medications:

• Antidepressants (like SSRIs)
• Anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed in some cases.

3. Lifestyle and Supportive Approaches:

• Stress management techniques
• Support groups
• Gradual exposure to social situations

When to Seek Help?

If social anxiety starts interfering with daily life, relationships, or performance at work/school, it is important to consult a mental health professional.

Overview:

Plastic and reconstructive surgery is a specialized branch of medicine focused on restoring appearance and function due to birth defects, trauma, burns, disease, or aging.

It encompasses both:

• Reconstructive Surgery: Performed to restore normal appearance and function.
• Cosmetic Surgery: Aimed at enhancing appearance.

Common Procedures:

• Cleft Lip and Palate Repair
• Burn Reconstruction
• Scar Revision Surgery
• Skin Grafting
• Breast Reconstruction (post-mastectomy)
• Hand Surgery
• Facial Trauma Surgery
• Tissue Expansion
• Microsurgery
• Congenital Deformity Corrections

Benefits of Reconstructive Surgery:

• Improved functionality (e.g., speech, movement)
• Restored appearance
• Enhanced confidence and quality of life
• Better healing and long-term outcomes in trauma and cancer-related cases

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q1: Is plastic surgery only for cosmetic purposes?
No. Reconstructive plastic surgery treats functional impairments and helps restore normal appearance after trauma, illness, or congenital conditions.

Q2: Will there be visible scarring?
While minimal scarring is possible, plastic surgeons use advanced techniques to minimize and often hide scars in natural skin folds.

Q3: How long is the recovery?
Recovery varies by procedure and individual. Minor surgeries may require a few days; major ones could take several weeks. Your surgeon will guide you based on your case.

Q4: Is plastic surgery safe?
Yes, when performed by trained and certified specialists in accredited hospitals, plastic and reconstructive procedures are generally safe.

Total Knee Replacement

A Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is a surgical procedure in which damaged parts of the knee joint are replaced with artificial components (prostheses) to relieve pain and restore function, often necessary in patients with severe arthritis or knee injury.

Key Highlights:

• The procedure involves replacing the damaged cartilage and bone from the surface of the knee joint with metal and plastic components.
• Aims to improve mobility and reduce pain in patients with severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis.
• Recommended when:
  • Non-surgical treatments no longer relieve pain.
  • There is difficulty in walking, climbing stairs, or rising from a seated position.
  • Persistent knee stiffness limits daily activities.

Surgical Benefits:

• Pain relief
• Improved mobility
• Better quality of life
• High success and satisfaction rates

Recovery:

• Hospital stay: Typically 2–3 days.
• Rehabilitation and physiotherapy are essential for full recovery.
• Most patients resume normal activities within 6–12 weeks post-surgery.

Precautions Post-Surgery:

• Avoid twisting motions or high-impact activities.
• Follow exercise regimen as advised.
• Regular follow-up with the orthopedic surgeon.