Against all Odds: Fortis Vasant Kunj Saves Newborn Weighing mere 640 gms post 90 days NICU Stay

Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, achieved a rare milestone by saving the life of a new born at just 24 weeks of pregnancy and weighing only 640 grams, who was barely the size of a palm. The fragile newborn, born 16 weeks prior to the normal gestation period of 40 weeks  faced life-threatening complications. The case is being hailed as a "micro preemie miracle,” as this tiny baby’s survival is nothing short of extraordinary, born at the very edge of what modern medicine can save.

From the very beginning, the case posed formidable challenges. The newborn did not cry while birthing and was born with an alarmingly slow heart rate. Undeterred, the pediatricians and specialist team at Fortis Vasant Kunj sprang into action. With expert precision, they resuscitated the infant immediately and initiated round‑the‑clock intensive monitoring and life‑support interventions. Compounding the complexity, the baby’s lungs were too weak to breathe independently. He was placed on advanced respiratory support and maintained on critical medications, each carefully calibrated to sustain life, while the medical team vigilantly adjusted every parameter.

Additionally, the baby's kidneys were not fully developed, affecting its ability to function properly. During the first week, the newborn experienced a significant weight loss, dropping to just 550 grams. This weight reduction was a critical concern, but the dedicated care provided by the medical team ensured the baby's stability and recovery. Through continuous monitoring and specialized treatment, the medical team was able to manage these complex health issues, highlighting the importance of expert neonatal care in overcoming such challenges.

Speaking about the case, Dr. Rahul Nagpal, Principal Director & Head of Paediatrics & Neonatology at Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, said: “Survival of newborns at 24 weeks is mere 10-15%, which essentially means that only 1 in 3 premature babies survives. With round-the-clock care, careful fluid management, and strong infection control, we could prevent brain bleeding and infections, which are the most dangerous risks for such small babies. This baby’s survival against all odds is a great testimony to what is possible with timely care, precision and teamwork. Each gram of weight gain was a milestone for us, and seeing him go home healthy was a moment of pride for us.”

Dr Shradha Joshi, Senior Consultant, Neonatology, Fortis Vasant Kunj Said “The newborn overcame every challenge and complication, and our nursing staff truly deserves heartfelt appreciation for their dedication. After 90 days in the NICU, he was discharged at a healthy weight of 1.8 kgs. The baby is six months old now and weighs 6 kgs. His vision, hearing and brain scans are all normal.”

Dr. Gurvinder Kaur, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital Vasant Kunj, said, “This case is a remarkable example of how medical expertise, advanced technology, and compassionate care can come together to save lives. It highlights the dedication of our doctors, nurses, and support staff, who worked tirelessly to give this baby the best possible chance. We are proud of the team for setting a high standard in neonatal care and bringing hope to families during their most challenging times.”