Mumbai: Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, has set a new benchmark in medical innovation. The hospital successfully performed its first minimally invasive colonoscopic cecostomy surgery. The procedure was performed on 28-year-old IT professional Marilyn D’Mello, who had long suffered from neurogenic bowel problems related to spina bifida.
This new endoscopic technique involves creating a percutaneous caecal access under colonoscopic guidance and inserting a 24-French PEG catheter. This allows patients to self-perform antegrade colonic irrigation without the need for open surgery or abdominal incisions.
Marilyn was born with spina bifida, which caused her to experience severe constipation, incontinence, and dependency. Previous MACE (Malone Antegrade Continence Enema) surgery hadn’t provided long-term relief, so advanced endoscopic treatment was needed.
The hospital’s multidisciplinary team, led by Dr. Ravikant Gupta and Dr. Santosh Karmarkar, performed the colonoscopy-based procedure. This technique avoids the need for a traditional laparotomy and minimizes risks, even with prior surgery or adhesions. The entire procedure was completed in less than an hour—a significant step toward minimally invasive treatment in the field of gastrointestinal surgery.
Within 24 hours of surgery, Marilyn was able to defecate spontaneously through a saline flush through the cecostomy tube. She experienced minimal discomfort, required no painkillers, and was discharged from the hospital the next day in a completely healthy state.
Dr. Ravikant Gupta, Consultant Endoscopy Intervention, Lilavati Hospital, said, “This procedure will be a game changer in the treatment of complex cases of neurogenic bowel dysfunction. For spina bifida patients, this is not just a medical issue, but a life-threatening issue, involving self-esteem and independence. Colonoscopic cecostomy is a safe, non-invasive procedure with long-term results.”
Dr. Santosh Karmarkar, Consultant Pediatric Surgeon and Spina Bifida Specialist, said, “This patient had been receiving treatment since childhood and was dependent on others. This surgery has given her permanent independence. More than just a technical success, this is crucial for her self-confidence and mental health. Essentially, treatment is about restoring dignity to the patient.”
Dr. Niraj Utmani, Chief Operating Officer, Lilavati Hospital, added, “Lilavati Hospital prides itself on innovations that directly improve the quality of life of patients. This revolutionary colonoscopic cecostomy is not only a surgical breakthrough, but also a symbol of the advancement of minimally invasive care in India.”