Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta Road Bangalore,counts 150 Robotic Colorectal Surgeries and becomesonly one of few in India to Achieve This Breakthrough

Apollo Doctor is the First European Board Accredited Robotic Colorectal Surgeon in India

Bangalore, July 27, 2023– Apollo hospitals, Bangalore sets yet another new record and witnesses a moment of pride. Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore, is a leading healthcare provider in the country. It adds another feather to its hat and becomes one of the very few hospitals in India to complete 150-odd successful robotic colorectal surgeries. Not just that, Dr. Narasimhaiah Srinivasaiah, senior consultant at Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road, and Head at Apollo Institute of colo-rectal Surgery in Bangalore is the first European Board accredited Robotic Colorectal Surgeon in India, further enhancing the hospital’s reputation for excellence.

Dr. Narasimhaiah shed light on the significant accomplishments and the intricacies of robotic colorectal surgery. He highlighted that the hospital has performed a wide range of colorectal robotic surgerieswith a yearly average of 50 operations. Robotic colorectal surgery involves utilising a human-assisted robot for complex operations on the colon and rectum, particularly for cancer cases. This advanc d form of laparoscopic or keyhole surgery has proven to be highly effective in treating various conditions such as colonic cancer, rectal cancer, anal cancer, recurrent colorectal cancers, and pelvic cancers.

To facilitate robotic colorectal surgery, a dedicated minimally invasive surgical theatre and a surgical robotic system arerequired. Here at Apollo hospitals, Bangalore we have an Intuitive Da Vinci XI system. Apollo Hospital Bannerghatta Road is one among very few hospitals in India to have ensured the availability of these essential infrastructural requirements. The hospital also prides itself on having skilled, robotically trained support staff and a supportive administration that nurtures and advances this program.

Discussing the precision and skill required for robotic colorectal surgery, Dr. Narasimhaiah emphasised that it demands expertise in minimally invasive surgery, along with a deep understanding of the technical aspects of robotics. “Surgeons must possess the right attributes and skills. Hand-eye coordination, spatial orientation, situational awareness, lateral thinking, and patience are only some of them. Robotic surgery provides a stable platform, increased depth perception, a wider range of movements, high visibility, smaller scars, quicker recovery, and faster return to daily activities. It is important that surgeons must have an artistic approach: as human anatomy serves as a canvas and the surgeons serve as artists, striving for the best possible patient care. Robotics adds more precision and enhanced outcome to it,” said Dr. Narasimhaiah.

Dr. Narasimhaiah’s accreditation as the first European Board accredited Robotic Colorectal Surgeon in India adds another accolade to his already impressive profile. Having undergone extensive training in Europe and America, Dr. Narasimhaiah has gained the competence required to undertake precision-based onco-surgery for the benefit of patients in India. He holds the position of Associate Professor of Surgery at Apollo Hospitals and is the Head of Colorectal Services in the Karnataka region. Dr. Narasimhaiah is also the Director of Health Sciences Park (HSP) in Bangalore and plays a vital role in advancing colorectal surgery at Apollo Institute of Colorectal Surgery (AICRS).

Speaking about the extensive training required for conducting robotic colorectal surgeries, Dr. Narasimhaiah said: “You need skill sets of a minimally invasive surgeon to become a highly skilled robotic colorectal surgeon. There is a need for good hand eye coordination, spatial orientation, situational awareness, lateral thinking and patience, for which adequate training is required. Most of the art of robotic surgery needs passion, patience and perseverance. There is a steep learning curve incorporating theoretical base, absorption of the principles of minimally invasive surgery, simulation on dry labs, hands on with wet cadaveric labs followed by immersion programs both in reach and outreach. He underwent his training at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London, the Royal London Hospital in London, the Christie Hospital in Manchester, Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital in New York and The Champalimaud Foundation in Lisbon. These are mainly fellowships spanning between a few weeks to a couple of years with structured training and signing off. In India, industry and institutions are gradually driving the training.”

Dr. Narasimhaiah’s expertise spans various areas of colorectal surgical oncology, including cancer surgeries – colonic, rectal, anal, appendiceal, pelvic, and peritoneal.

He added: “The Apollo Hospital’s vision emphasising on a combination of human touch and technological precision, has been instrumental in the hospital’s success and in helping patients recover from complex conditions through the precision touch of robotics and skills of doctors matching the global standards.”

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Dry Eye Cases on the Rise Due to Overuse of Smartphones, Says Expert

Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital Offers Free Dry Eye Screening in Observance of Dry Eye Awareness Month

Bangalore, July 24, 2023: The rapid increase in smartphone usage and extended screen time has led to a concerning rise in dry eye conditions among the population, particularly in tech-centric cities like Bangalore, according to eye surgeons at Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital. In observance of Dry Eye Awareness Month, the hospital is offering a free dry eye screening initiative until August 15, 2023, aimed at promoting early detection and timely treatment. With the rising popularity of digital screens, the incidence of severe dry eyes has tripled, making it essential to take proactive measures to protect eye health.

Dry eye disease is a multifactorial condition that arises from tear film instability, inflammation, and damage to the ocular surface. Common symptoms of dry eyes encompass burning sensation, stinging, irritation, foreign body sensation, redness, transient blurring of vision, and photophobia. The importance of early detection and appropriate treatment cannot be overstated, as they are pivotal in preventing discomfort and impairment in day-to-day activities.
Dr. Sanjana Vatsa, Consultant Ophthalmologist at Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital, highlights the crucial issue of dry eyes in Bangalore, stating, “Bangalore faces a crucial issue of dry eyes. The extensive use of computers and electronic devices in the city, along with elevated levels of allergens and pollution, contributes to the rising incidence of dry eye cases. Ocular allergies, in particular, impact tear film quality, exacerbating the symptoms of dry eyes.”
“As an Ophthalmologist, I am deeply concerned about the rapid rise in dry eye cases, especially with the prevalent use of smartphones and digital devices. Early detection and timely treatment play a crucial role in managing this condition and preserving eye health. I urge everyone to be vigilant about their eye health and seek professional care to ensure comfortable and clear vision in their daily lives,” added Dr. Sanjana.

“Regular eye check-ups every 6 months to 1 year are paramount in maintaining optimal ocular surface health and detecting dry eye disease at an early stage. By identifying and addressing underlying systemic conditions such as Diabetes, Thyroid disease, and Arthritis, we can proactively manage and prevent dry eye disease,” emphasized Dr. Sanjana.
To reduce the risk of dry eye disease, Dr. Sanjana Vatsa recommends adopting preventive measures such as ” Limiting the use of electronic devices, taking regular breaks during work hours, using lubricating eye drops regularly, staying well-hydrated, and avoiding direct exposure to air conditioners or coolers which can significantly improve your eye health and reduce the chances of developing dry eye symptoms.”
Regarding treatment options, Dr. Sanjana advised, “When dealing with mild dry eye symptoms, lubricating eye drops can provide effective relief. However, in severe cases, dry eye can cause discomfort, redness, pain, excessive tearing, and sensitivity to light, affecting overall vision and eye health. In such instances, I recommend specialized treatment options, which may involve the use of oral supplements containing Omega 3, 6, 9 fatty acids, berry extracts, and antioxidants. Additionally, Intense Pulse Light Therapy is an advanced treatment that stimulates glands around the eyes, enhancing tear production and improves the quality of tears, leading to significant improvement in dry eye conditions.”
During this Dry Eye Awareness Month, Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital is committed to providing free dry eye screenings to patients. The screening will evaluate tear quantity and quality, identify those at risk of severe dry eye disease, and offer timely and appropriate treatment to improve their ocular health.

For more information or to schedule a free dry eye screening, please contact: 9594924051

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Promoting Quality Nationwide:QCI Extends its Physical Presence with NABL & NABH Bengaluru Office

Bengaluru, 26th July 2023 : The Quality Council of India (QCI), in order to promote and enhance quality standards across diverse sectors, takes a significant step towards expanding its physical presence across the States as it inaugurates the Bengaluru Office of the National Accreditation Board for Testing & Calibration Laboratories (NABL) and National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH). The inauguration event witnessed the esteemed presence of Mr. Jaxay Shah, Chairperson, QCI; Dr. Ravi P. Singh, Secretary General, QCI; Prof. Subbanna Ayyappan, Chairperson, NABL; Mr. N Venkateswaran, CEO, NABL; Dr. A. Raj, CEO, NBQP and dignitaries from ASSOCHAM, ASQ (American Society for Quality), CII, ONDC and other stakeholders.
Their participation underscored the significance of the moment and their determination to ensure quality practices reach every corner of India. As the National Accreditation Body, QCI’s mission is to enhance quality infrastructure across various industries. India’s accreditation system, under QCI, has been ranked 5th globally.

The Bengaluru Office opening marks a momentous occasion as it creates permanent communication channels to facilitate collaboration with government departments, state organizations, associations, industry players, and other stakeholders in the region. This endeavour will enable QCI and its boards to interact closely with regional players and associations, fostering greater outreach and awareness. The post-launch meet shed light on QCI’s vision for the future, its plans for collaborative initiatives, and its commitment to continually raising the bar on quality standards.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Jaxay Shah, Chairperson, Quality Council of India (QCI), said, “Inaugurating the Bengaluru Office of NABL & NABH represents our collective determination to enhance quality infrastructure in India. We have been continuously working across the different states of India to inculcate quality consciousness, and now we are also expanding our physical presence across the states to foster strong partnerships with regional players and associations to build a robust network that ensures prompt response and grievance redressal for all stakeholders. We also urge the Government of Karnataka to partner with Quality Council of India in order to improve the quality of life of the citizens of the State”.
“We have laid the foundation for a future defined by impeccable quality standards. With this physical office extension of NABL, we envision better coordination in the upliftment of quality standards in various laboratories and testing facilities”, said Prof. Subbanna Ayyappan, Chairperson,
NABL.
Mr. N Venkateswaran, CEO, NABL, said, “Our aim is to bring a quality revolution within the state and enhance the status of regional testing and calibration laboratories. The physical presence of NABL in Bengaluru will expand and strengthen medical and calibration testing in the State.”
Dr. A. Raj, CEO of NBQP, emphasized that “Quality needs to be etched in our DNA for us to be a developed nation when India turns 100 and QCI is endeavouring to take the message of Quality to the masses. So let’s pledge to demand quality in every walk of life”.

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Aakash BYJU’S Launches its Biggest and Most Awaited National Talent Hunt Exam, ANTHE 2023; Offers Up to 100% Scholarship and Cash Awards to Class VII-XII Students

* ANTHE, Aakash Institute’s national scholarship exam, meant for students of Class VII-XII, will be held between October 7-15, 2023 in both online and offline mode

* Upto 100% Scholarships will be awarded:700 Students to be given Cash Awards

* 100 Students across grades to get a chance to be a part of a Notional Science Expedition

* Last year, a record was set when more than 16.5 lakh students wrote the exam. Many toppers (NEET UG 2023 AIR 3, 5, 6 and JEE Advance 2023 AIR 27, 28 started their journey with ANTHE

Bengaluru, July 26, 2023: Aakash BYJU’s, the national leader in test preparatory services, today unveiled the 14th edition of its popular and widely sought-after ANTHE (Aakash National Talent Hunt Exam) 2023. The flagship annual scholarship exam presents the chance for Class VII-XII students to unleash their potential with up to 100% scholarships and remarkable cash awards. Empowering young minds to soar towards their dreams of a promising future in medicine or engineering, ANTHE 2023 promises to be an extraordinary gateway to success.

ANTHE scholarship recipients can enroll in Aakash and receive expert guidance and mentorship to prepare for various exams, including NEET, JEE, state CETs, School/Board exams, and competitive scholarships like NTSE and Olympiads.

An exciting addition for students this year is the chance for 100 students from various classes to win a 5-day all- expenses paid trip to a National Science Expedition.

Over the years, ANTHE has produced notable achievers, with several students from Aakash BYJU’s emerging as top rankers in exams like NEET (UG) and JEE (Advanced). A number of Aakashians who started their educational journey at Aakash with ANTHE, including Kaustav Bauri (AIR 3), Dhruv Advani (AIR 5), and Surya Siddharth N (AIR 6), became Champions in NEET (UG) 2023. Similarly, Aditya Neeraje (AIR 27) and Aakash Gupta (AIR 28), who also commenced their journey with ANTHE, áttained commendable positions in JEE (Advanced) 2023.

Commenting on ANTHE 2023, Mr Abhishek Maheshwari, CEO, Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL),  said, “ANTHE has been the catalyst in fulfilling the aspirations of lakhs of students by bridging the gap between dreams and capabilities. Since its inception in 2010, we have strived to extend our coaching opportunities to deserving students nationwide, breaking barriers of location. ANTHE opens doors for students to prepare for NEET and IIT-JEE exams at their own pace, wherever they may be. We anticipate stong participation in ANTHE 2023 and remain steadfast in our mission of propelling students closer to a promising future.”

ANTHE 2023 will take place from October 7-15, 2023, in both online and offline modes across 26 states and union territories in India. In addition to scholarships of up to 100%, top scorers will also receive cash awards.

ANTHE online will be held between 10:00 AM – 09:00 PM during all exam days, while the offline exams will be conducted on October 8 and 15, 2023 in two shifts: 10:30 AM-11:30 AM and 04:00 PM-05:00 PM at all 315+ centers of Aakash BYJU’S across the country. Students can choose a one-hour slot convenient to them.

ANTHE will be a one-hour test carrying a total of 90 marks and comprising 40 multiple-choice questions based on the grade and stream aspirations of students. For Class VII-IX students, the questions will cover subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics and Mental Ability. For Class X students aspiring for medical education, the questions will cover Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mental Ability, while for engineering aspirants of the same class, the questions will cover Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Mental Ability. Similarly, for Class XI-XII students who aim for NEET, questions will cover Physics, Chemistry, Botany and Zoology, while for engineering aspirants they will cover Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics.

The last date for submitting the enrolment form for ANTHE 2023 is three days before the commencement of the online exam and seven days before the offline exam. The exam fee is INR 100 for offline mode and free for online mode.

Results for ANTHE 2023 will be declared on October 27, 2023, for Class X students, November 03, 2023, for Class VII to IX, and November 08, 2023, for Class XI and XII students. The results will be available on our website.

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Press Day at Bangalore Press Club

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah inaugurated the Press Day function organized by Bengaluru Press Club and Karnataka Working Journalists Association at the Press Club.

Journalist P.  Ramaiah, Information and Public Relations Department Commissioner Dr.  Hemant M.  Nimbalkar, DS Max Properties Director SP Dayanand, Bangalore Press Club President R.  Sridhar, General Secretary B.P.  Mallapa, Karnataka Working Journalists Association President Shivananda Tagaduru, General Secretary G.  C.  Lokesh was present.

 Senior journalists D.  Umapati, Ravi Hegde, Journalist Dr.  R.  Purnima spoke about Journalists social responsibility.

Senior journalists R.P.  Jagadish, MA Ponnappa, B.V.  Mallikarjunaiah, M.  Siddaraj, Arakere Jayaram, Sarangapani.  P, Gujjarappa BG, Samivulla .B were felicitated by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

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