General Questions

Health tourism or Wellness tourism is a combination of medical treatment and/or travel to a holiday destination for recuperation/rejuvenation. Patients from comparatively developed countries travel to other geographies with cheaper healthcare facilities, and enjoy a vacation post recovery.
India offers state of art healthcare facilities in the world. The service providers are well equipped with the best infrastructure, at par with the developed nations of the globe. The facilities are economically priced. These treatments are reasonably cheap for the price at which the medical expertise is offered. Indian doctors are considered among the best in the world and internationally acclaimed. A vast variety of surgeries are also done here at several super specialty hospitals across all major cities in India. Health tourism in India thus enables you to explore an incredible country, regain your health, save a substantial amount of money and go back home with fond memories.
One would be pleasantly surprised to know that the cost difference for many treatments and surgeries in India is huge, and the savings are enough to fund a lavish holiday at any destination one may choose, and even more. Your medical treatment including your airfare will cost much cheaper than just the price of your treatment in many western nations. Hence, you may explore an incredible country before or after the treatment, and take back substantial savings along with great memories.
Patients save on an average 40-60% on their medical expenses when they choose India as their health tourism destination. Procedures for most surgeries are very reasonably priced, enabling large savings.

The difference in expenditure is not due to low standards of medical facilities but due to India being at a different stage economically. The penalties for malpractice in this field and other related charges imposed on healthcare service providers in western countries are much higher. Patients should bear the burden of these additional costs. Developing nations like India do not impose such enormous charges. The medical fee levied on patients is substantially reduced consequently.

PatientMD works closely with best reputed hospitals and are guided by highly experienced doctors. These service providers offer class apart facilities and takes pride in being supported by internationally acclaimed doctors. They use the same technology and equipment for diagnosis and treatment, as used by the best hospitals in the west.

The doctors, nurses and administrative staff at the hospitals are proficient in communicating in English. The entire team at PatientMD are well conversant with English language.
Our customers need not have any language concerns as PatientMD provides translators and interpreters so that you enjoy a hassle-free treatment, recovery and holiday.
PatientMD acts as a liaison between the patients and the healthcare service provider. While the treatment is looked after by the hospital, we take care of the entire process, right from initiating correspondence, share a detailed proposal with relevant information, helping the patient and family to take the right decision, block dates, book tickets, arrange accommodation, local transportation, and related services. Rather, it is an airport- to- airport service, with PatientMD providing the necessary support to the client right from the time she/ he lands in India, till departure.
Based on the status of your medical condition, we propose a pre or post treatment holiday. India is incredible, and one must not miss the opportunity to see this great country. The itinerary will be arranged accordingly, to accommodate a holiday apart from the treatment schedule. Our tourism packages are customized, suiting specific needs, covering all popular tourist destinations across India.
PatientMD does provide services for patients who need immediate attention. For such patients, we offer emergency services such as ambulance pick up in case you need to go to the hospital directly from the airport. PatientMD will also decide for registration at the hospital so that the required treatment begins at the earliest. Under normal circumstances, there is no waiting time in most private hospitals in India.
Your companion may choose from a wide range of options while you recover. There are several hotels and guesthouses in the vicinity of the hospitals where the stay would be comfortable and safe, and suiting your budget.
Cancellations seldom happen. However, in case one cancels the trip, partial refund would be initiated, deducting expenses that has already been incurred for arranging the trip.
We have outlined the entire procedure explained in easy steps. Please go through the same in our website.
Care at major hospitals in India are covered by a number of health insurance providers all across the globe. These include Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, ALICO (American Life Insurance Company), International SOS and more.

Questions About Csyberknife

A robotic radiosurgery system invented by John R Adler, a professor of neurosurgery. A robotic arm is used in the surgery for the energy flow to be directed from any direction to the body. It is a popular method of radiotherapy today particularly in North America, East Asia, and Europe. It is being used for treating tumors.
Cyberknife effectively treats malignant tumors and other benign tumors in any location of human body. There are also uses recorded for treating liver, pancreas, prostrate, and neck cancers.
There are several methods for cyberknife surgery but two main features since its inception has been the robotic mounting and image guidance system unlike other stereotactic systems. For soft tissue of tumors, the surgeons use a method called "fiducial" tracking.
In other stereotactic systems, the Gamma Knife is used as the main device for the radiosurgery system. But in cyberknife, the robotic mounting is effective. Cyberknife is frameless. In frame-based system, patients with fragile heads like that of children, frameless system can re-treat the person without the hassle of a frame-based one. Cyberknife also allows larger dose of radiation to flow than of single treatments.

Questions About Bone Marrow Transplantation

Bone Marrow Transplantation is done for patients with leukaemia and thalassaemia. The Bone Marrow is the fluid found in our bones and responsible for producing the white blood protecting the body. The "mother cells" that do not turn into white blood are the main component of the surgery.
Stem cell or the Bone Marrow transplantation is done with two methods- Autologous and Allogenic. In Autologous, the stem cells and the bone marrow used for the surgery is the person's own. The cells are stored and freezed before the transplant. After the transplantation, the cells are given back through the veins.
The transplantation process usually follows three essential steps. The first being collection of the bone marrow. The second step is to prepare the patient to receive the new stem cells and the bone marrow.The final process is when the new bone marrow is injected through intravenous route through the blood into the patient's body.
Siblings of the patient, parents, and any closest relative can act as the stem cell donor. The matching is made through blood tests. The donor should be fit for the surgery and give his or her consent. The facility for getting a good unrelated donor with the required match is not there in India.
The donor needs to be good health and qualify in terms of fitness. However, there is high-risk for the patient like bleeding and infection. In Autogous transplant, the risk is comparatively lower than that of Allogenic. The graft venus from the donor may have infection. There is also chance of graft failure and risk of infection during recovery term. The age of the recipient of the bone marrow needs to be considered. However, with intensive pre-surgery treatments, counseling, and tests, the chances of risks have come down.

Questions About Cardiology

A normal human heart beats 70 to 80 times in 1 minute which means 1,00,000 times a day. The heart has 4 chambers- two upper chamber and two lower chambers known as Atria and Ventricles respectively. The right atrium of the heart gets de-oxygenated blood flow which in turn flows through the pulmonary valve into the pulmonary artery into the lungs. The de-oxygenated blood gets purified in the lungs and flows back through the same route to the rest of the body. The blood vessels which fed heart are known as coronary arteries.
The stiffness occurred in the very small arteries led to High Blood Pressure. Low salt diet, stress management, regular exercise and weight control are the measures that can control High Blood Pressure. If your BP is not controlled by these measures, doctor may prescribe you with necessary medications.
Smoking, high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, lack of exercise, obesity and diabetes are the major causes of the heart disease.
A heart attack is a condition which occurs when the supply of blood and oxygen to a particular area of the muscle gets disrupted. This blockage is the leading cause of arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) that cause a fatal decline in the pumping function of the heart.
The most common symptoms that occur in the case of heart attack include chest pain, palpitations, breathlessness, pain in the armpits, chest pain and cyanosis.
It is a type of fat substance produced in a human liver. There are two types of this fat- saturated and unsaturated. Butter, Ghee, red meat and coconut oil contain unsaturated fat which is harmful for the body.
Atherosclerosis is a medical condition wherein cholesterol along with calcium and blood clot gets deposited in the arteries and creates stiffness.
Clogged arteries refer to a medical condition wherein the calcium deposits, fats, salt and fibrin accumulates within the walls of the artery. The clogged arteries put a person at risk of heart attack. The other treatments available besides Bypass Surgery are Angioplasty and Stent.
With the advent of advanced technology, the surgical procedures for heart has become less complicated. However there are some complications associated with open heart surgery. Also if the patient is suffering from diabetes, lung & kidney disease, the complications can be severe.
Angina refers to the chest pain which occurs in the area of your heart muscle due to the shortage of oxygen. Angina has two forms: Stable Angina and Unstable Angina. While Stable angina takes place in the case of bodily exertion and decreased flow of oxygen in the heart, unstable angina is the same case but is not relieved by rest. A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, occurs due to the blockage in the heart muscle, preventing it from oxygen and blood inflow.
Cardiac rehabilitation program is a medically supervised program that helps in the improvement of health and well being of people suffering from different kind of heart problems.
Electrophysiology study is done for the diagnosis and treatment to study the arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats).
Radio Frequency Ablation is a procedure wherein radio frequency energy is targeted to those areas that cause an abnormal heart beat.
It is an electronic device that helps to normalize your heartbeat and produce electric pulses to speed your heart rate
Coronary angiography is a specialized test performed to examine the blood supply and functioning of the arteries in the heart.
Congenital heart disease refers to the structure and abnormalities of the heart & great vessels which is present since the birth. The abnormal conditions are as follows: holes in the walls, narrowing of blood vessels and abnormal location of blood vessels.
These are the unusual sounds occur while the heart beats. A doctor can hear them by using a stethoscope. Most of the time these murmurs does not serious health problems.

Questions about Pediatric Cardiology

According to estimation, 1 in every 10 or 12 children is born with a congenital heart defect. Congenital heart defects are inclusive of a number of conditions. There are approximately 100s of types, and thus making an exact diagnosis is sometimes a challenging thing. Following are the general heart defects:
  • First one, are holes in one’s heart or great vessels: The examples of such kinds of holes in the heart of a child are inclusive of Atrial Septal Defect that is ASD, Ventricular Septal Defect that is VSD and Patent Ductus Arteriosus that is PDA
  • Second is, conditions resulting in the child becoming a blue baby: This sort of a condition is also known as Cyanotic Heart Defect whose examples are inclusive of Tetralogy of Fallot’s that is TOF and Transposition that is TGA.
  • Third is, congenital narrowing of heart valves or vessels: The examples are inclusive of congenital narrowing of the pulmonary or aortic valve.
There are chances that around 30 percent of congenital heart defects are life threatening in the early parts in life and require a proper amount of attention in infancy only. The statistics show that Rheumatic heart disease gives trouble to a large number of school-going children in India as well as other developing countries. In such sort of a defect, the heart valves seriously get damaged and as a result many children as the time passes, require a surgery or balloon procedure in the cardiac catheterization laboratory.
In most cases, the causes of the development of congenital heart disease are not known. There are few chances that a viral infection in the mother during the first few stages of pregnancy might result in a serious heart problem. For instance, the heart of a child might not get properly developed if the mother gets German Measles in the first three months of pregnancy. Another important factor is heredity. There are some other conditions also that affect multiple organs, like Down’s syndrome or Mongolism, can also have an ill-effect on the heart. Along with this, there are some other drugs, if consumed at the time of pregnancy, may also which can also have an effect on the development of the heart. Consuming alcohol can also have a harmful effect on the normal development of a heart.
Following are the general symptoms of heart disease in infants:
  • Improper growth
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Excess of sweating
  • Frequency of infection in the chest
  • Blueness of lips, fingers and toes
  • Difficulty with feeding
For a proper amount of care of a child with a heart defect, a highly co-ordinated attempt from the side of a team of trained personnel is quite necessary which is inclusive of pediatric cardiologists, pediatric cardiac surgeons, intensive care physicians and intensive care nurses. Along with this, a whole range of latest equipments is needed, which might be quite costly. The establishment of an infrastructure for the care of a child with a heart defect requires huge investments which few institutions in India can afford it.
Most of the heart defects require an open-heart operation but today due to advancement in technology in cardiac catheterization field, closure of some patients with heart disease is possible without an operation. The trauma of surgery becomes nil and recovery becomes rapid. Some of such heart defects are Atrial Septal Defect (ASD), Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) and some patients with Ventricular Septal Defects.
Today, there are a number of institutions in India that have a complete infrastructure for newborn as well as infant heart surgery. All of these have adult cardiac surgery programs and infrastructure, which is also shared by pediatric cardiac services. As per statistics, around 1500 neonatal and infant heart operations are performed in India each year.

Questions about Coronary Angioplasty

Coronary Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to restore the blood flow through a blocked artery. In this non-surgical procedure, a thin tube with a balloon is inserted to expand the site of blockage in the coronary artery. It is also referred to as PTCA (percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty).
Angioplasty is a non-surgical procedure devised to unclog the blocked arteries. This procedure is carried out in a cardiac catheterization laboratory. The stenting is a device used to open the clogged arteries to restore blood flow.
Angioplasty is a therapeutic procedure wherein the clogged portion of the artery is broadened to restore the blood flow. On the other hand, angiography is a medical examination done to detect the blocked areas in the coronary artery.
The procedure of angioplasty can be conducted for broadening blockage in several blood vessels of the body. If it is being done for coronary blood vessels, it is known as coronary angioplasty. The process of unclogging blockage in other blood vessels is known as carotid artery.
A patient is asked to drink lots of water to help flush away the iodine contrast dye from the body system. On the site of insertion, a sandbag or pressure bandage is placed to prevent the bleeding. You’ll be asked to take rest for next few hours.
The doctor will talk to you about the amount of blockage eliminated from the artery and the possibility for the return of symptoms, necessary medications and changes to be implemented in the daily schedule.
You should call your doctor if :
  • Insertion site bleeds
  • Excessive chest pain
  • Numbness in the arm & leg of the insertion side.
  • Swelling increases
  • You feel any fever or signs of infection
Following are the risks involved in the procedure of angioplasty:
  • Bursting of the artery due to unsustainable high pressure
  • Kidney problem due to the iodine contrast dye in X-rays
  • Restenosis or re-blockage of the blood vessels

Questions about Coronary Angiography

Coronary artery disease takes place when an upsurge of plaque that is fatty deposits, cholesterol and calcium get stuck to the walls of the arteries, causing narrowing and blockages, therefore reducing the flow of blood to the heart. Such kind of blockages often result in pain known as angina. If the disease goes untreated, clots may form, resulting in a heart attack.
Following are risk factors for coronary artery disease:
  • History of heart disease in family
  • Obesity
  • A diet containing a large amount of saturated fats
  • High cholesterol
  • Inactivity
  • Unstable diabetes
  • Smoking
  • High blood pressure
Coronary angiography is a diagnostic process that is performed for detecting problems with the heart and the blood vessels. Angioplasty is a surgical process where a special balloon is put –in for opening the artery at the point of blockage, to improve the flow of blood to the heart. If your doctor has recommended angioplasty, then this process might include stents and not might not. A stent is a stretchy wire mesh tube that is inserted into the expanded artery for keeping it open and allowing the flow of blood. Stents are of two types:
  • Plain metal variety, mostly used in acute situations
  • The drug-release type that dispurses the drug while in place for assisting in dilating the artery
Angiography is not only an all-encompassing process, but also the most conclusive tool for diagnosing the suspected heart disease and also find out the option for the best treatment. The expansion of the arteries that are blocked through angioplasty and also keeping the arteries open with stents brings in improvement in the flow of blood to the heart, which reduces the risk of heart attack and irregular heart rhythms.
Most of the times, Angiogram and angioplasty both the procedures are undertaken as day procedures in a specialized day surgery or cardiac catheter laboratory. After the surgery, an overnight stay at the hospital is required where stents are inserted.
The time that is needed in this process varies according to the condition an individual, but angiogram generally takes around 30 to 45 minutes, with approximately four hours of the time of recovery after the process.
Angioplasty and an insertion of the stents might take about a half an hour's time up to many hours which depends on the nature and extent of the coronary disease.
All concerned health care professionals are involved in the process, such as:
  • Cardiologist
  • Anesthetist (depends on the patient’s medical history)
  • Radiologist (for X-rays)
  • Pathologist (for blood tests)
  • Specialized nurses (For assistance in the process and in the patient’s recovery)
The specialist is required to provide detailed advice on the preparation that is required in the case of a particular patient but the general preparation can be:
  • One is required to fast that is should not eat or drink anything for around six hours prior to the process
  • One should seek medical advice about the prescribed medications before the process
After angiogram, the patient is monitored while in the recovery area before given a discharge. If the process was of angioplasty/stents, one has to stay overnight, during which the patient is closely observed. In both the cases, the patient must have someone to accompany since one is not in a condition to drive.
The doctor discusses the preliminary results of the angiogram before the patient is discharged. There is discussion about the instructions included after the day surgery or about any side effects that you might experience at home. Sometimes, the use of clot-preventing medicines are also prescribed after the process.

Questions about Vascular Surgery

Peripheral Vascular Disease refers to the blockage of arteries, due to the fatty deposits, that obstruct the supply of blood & oxygen to the arms & legs
Atherosclerosis is the main cause of Peripheral Vascular Disease. It is a condition wherein the artery wall gets thickened due to the accumulation of fatty substances in the blood vessels. Some major risks of Atherosclerosis are as follows: • Smoking • Diabetes • Hypertension • High Blood Pressure • Obesity
There are two types of Peripheral Vascular Disease- Functional and Organic. While Functional Peripheral Vascular Disease refers to the expansion of the artery due to a spasm, Organic Peripheral Vascular Disease is a situation wherein the arteries get clogged. Raynaud's disease is the example of Functional Peripheral Vascular and Buerger's disease is the example of Organic Peripheral Vascular Disease.
Some symptoms of the Peripheral Vascular Disease include:
  • Foot Pain
  • Cold & numb feet
  • Changes in skin color of the legs
  • Dysfunction of leg
  • Gangrene
  • Slow healing of foot & toe wounds.
  • Erectile Dysfunction
  • Hair Loss on feet & legs
There are few tests which you may undergo for the examination of Peripheral Vascular Disease.
  • Angiography : During an angiogram, a dye is injected into the artery to show the flow of blood through arteries and an amount of blockage in the identified location.
  • Doppler & Ultrasound : In this method, sound waves are used to identify the presence of blockages and measure the blood flow.
  • Computed Tomographic Angiography : In this method, arteries in abdomen, pelvis and legs are being checked.
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography :  same information what you get after a CT scan is gathered through this test.
The main aim behind the treatment of Peripheral Vascular Disease is to identify the risk factors and hinder the development of atherosclerosis.
  • Maintain a healthy weight Eat a healthy diet which is high in proteins and less carbohydrates such as fresh fruit, vegetables and low in salt as well.
  • Regular Exercise  A daily walk for 30 to 60 minutes is a must for you. Walk until the pain begins and rest until it disappears. The main aim is to increase the leg movement.
  • Control of blood sugar in diabetic patients
  • Maintain low blood pressure
  • Avoid any medicine that causes narrowing of arteries
  • Stop Smoking as it is the major cause of atherosclerosis

Questions about Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

CABG surgery  is advised for a fewer number of patients who have significant narrowings and blockages of the heart arteries.
Coronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when atherosclerotic plaque (made up of cholesterol) comes up in the wall of the arteries that can happen due to a number of reasons. This results in narrowing in one or multiple arteries. After 70 percent of blockage, the flow of oxygen becomes inadequate. This further becomes the cause of pain in the chest of the patients. A blood clot forms on the top of the plaque, the artery is completely blocked resulting in a heart attack.
There are a number of ways such as a resting electrocardiogram (EKG), exercise treadmill tests, the stress test, then there is echocardiography (ultrasound imaging of the heart muscle) with exercise stress testing (stress echocardiography).
In case the patient has problems related to joints or nervous system and he cannot undergo an exercise stress test then medication is injected into him that stimulates stress on heart after which imaging can be performed with ultrasound or a nuclear camera. Another accurate method is Cardiac catheterization with angiography (coronary arteriography)
Firstly, medicines are prescribed by the doctors for reducing angina. Some of the important drugs are the nitrates, beta blockers and calcium blockers. If the patient's condition is still the same then the data which was collected during coronary arteriography helps the special in deciding whether percutaneous coronary intervention, or percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTCA) should be considered. Here a small balloon is used to inflate the blockage. Then is the turn of Angioplasty (PTCA) after placement of a stent or coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) for increasing the flow of blood. But this can only be done in selected patients.
CABG surgery is done for relieving angina in patients who have not gained from medical therapy and cannot be prescribed angioplasty (PTCA). CABG is perfect for those patients who have multiple narrowings in multiple coronary artery branches.
The surgeon first undertakes a process called a median (middle) sternotomy (cutting of the sternum-breastbone). Then the heart is cooled with iced salt water and a preservative solution is injected into the heart arteries. This reduces damage caused by reduced flow of blood (cardioplegia). Prior to the bypass surgery, a cardiopulmonary bypass has to be followed. During the CABG surgery, the aorta is held tightly so that a bloodless field can be maintained.
Before one is given a discharge, sutures are removed from the chest prior and in 7-10 days from the leg. The patient is advised to wear an elastic stockings during the day for the first four to six weeks after surgery for support and also to keep the leg elevated while sitting. The breastbone is healed in around six weeks.
A patient should also not lift anything more than 10 pounds or undertake any heavy exertion during this span. One is also advised not to drive for 4-6 weeks., he can indulge in sexual activities only with minimized positions that do not put weight on the chest or upper arms. One can return back to work after a recovery span of 6 weeks.
Exercise stress testing from time to time for about 6 weeks. Rehabilitation takes a time of at least 12 weeks wherein a patient is given proper guidance about the kind of sober lifestyle he should now be following.
Any kind of risk or complicated becomes high due to the following:
  • Age (older than 70 years)
  • Chronic lung disease
  • Disease obstructing the left main coronary artery
  • Diabetes
  • Chronic kidney failure
  • Poor heart muscle function

Questions about Heart Valve Replacement

A heart valve replacement is a surgical procedure that is undertaken for the replacement of a valve which is not functioning in a proper manner. The heart has 4 valves that have the function of directing the flow of blood in the same direction.
The need of the procedure arises when a valve or a number of valves cannot be repaired due to the extent of severity of their damage that can be be due to a number of reasons ageing, abnormal formation in valves at the time of birth, bacterial infection, rheumatic fever, valve diseases (Stenosis and regurgitation).  All this can lead to a number of problems in the patient such as pain in the chest, increase in the shortness of breath, increase on fatigue, fainting, swelling the leg and ankle as well as dizziness.
The surgery of heart valve replacement is done in a specialty hospital that has trained surgeons, other helping staff, all the equipments and the required technology.
Both have advantages and disadvantages. A mechanical valve lasts for a longer span in comparison to a tissue valve but the patient has to be on medication for thinning of the blood, for the rest of your life for reducing the risk of clot formation. But in the case of a tissue valve, it is not so. The specialist can guide you better.
In some patient, a mechanical valve might last long as 25 years without any problem but in some cases, it has to be replaced within a few years or months, due to any kind of a reason but they are more resistant. Tissue valve does not last for such long but they can tear and leak after some time and need replacement in around 10 to 15 years. But this wearing out takes place slowly, so further planning can be done on time.
Yes, an X-ray after any kind of valve replacement is absolutely safe.
Yes, a new valve needs special amount of care. Your doctor can guide you better for the kind of safety measures, you need to take to be safe from any kind of valve infection.

Questions about Robotic Surgery

Robotic Surgery is the "remote activated or user-manipulated motion control, imaging and communication devices, operated via computer hardware and software to enable physicians to conduct an increasing array of surgical procedures in a minimally invasive manner." The surgery is performed in a minimally invasive technique, allowing for minimum cuts and post operative bruises. Robotic surgery involves sophisticated medical devices allowing surgeons to operate through tiny incisions, using improved, magnified visualization in high-definition 3D.
Robotic surgery allows surgeons to perform minimally invasive surgeries with the control, range of motion and 3-D visualization of traditional "open" surgery with the added advantages of less bleeding, less pain and scarring, shortened hospital stays, and quicker recovery time. For prostate procedures, robotic surgery may improve the ability to spare the nerves that are important in limiting the side effects like incontinence and impotence. For most patients, smaller incisions create less trauma, a swifter return to mobility and day-to-day activities, plus more cosmetically pleasing results.
As against conventional laparoscopy where the surgeon has to keep an eye on the video monitor to see inside the surgical site, with robotic surgery, the instrument maneuvers are higher in dexterity and precision. In fact, the robot has been designed to alleviate hand tremors thus further aiding precise hand movements. For sake of patients, positives include a shorter hospital stay, less pain, less risk of infection, less blood loss, fewer transfusions, less scarring, faster recovery and a quicker return to normal daily activities. None of these benefits can be guaranteed, as surgery is necessarily both patient- and procedure-specific.
Any patient who has not had too many abdominal surgeries and has not suffered any significant cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases is fit for robotic surgeries. In fact, usual abdominal surgeries such as cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), appendectomy or inguinal hernia repair warrant no concerns.
Since this treatment is predominantly defined as robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery, it shold go okay with any insurance that covers minimally invasive surgery. However, it is important you cross check with your insurance service as your coverage will depend on your plan and benefits package.

Questions about Infertility Treatment

Infertility refers to the inability to conceive naturally despite a year of regular unprotected intercourse.
The major cause of infertility in men is the routine lifestyle, which at times affect the number and quality of sperm. Alcohol and drugs can temporarily reduce the sperm quantity. Other problems are environmental toxins, severe medical illness and some sexually transmitted diseases.
There are several reasons that cause infertility in women such as hormonal imbalance, severe illness, problem in the reproductive system and some diseases such as Pelvic Inflammatory disease and Polycystic ovary syndrome.
Couples are advised to ask for medical help if they are unable to bear a child through natural intercourse. The physical examination is the first step in diagnosing the infertility problem. Blood tests and semen analysis are conducted for the couple. On the other hand, ultrasound examination and exploratory surgery are conducted for the women.
Depending upon the outcomes of the test, different treatments are recommended. Most of the cases are generally solved with medication and surgical repair of reproductive organs.
In Vitro Fertilization is the process wherein an egg is fertilized by sperm outside the body. During the IVF procedure, the ovary of the fertile women is removed and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory. The fertilized ovary is later placed in the woman's embryo, thus bypassing the Fallopian tubes.
Gamete intrafallopian transfer:  Unlike IVF, it is used when the woman has at least one normal Fallopian tube. Around 3 to 5 eggs are placed in the tube, along with the male sperm, for fertilization inside the female body. Zygote intrafallopian transfer: This procedure is a mix of IVF and GIFT. The eggs salvaged from the female ovaries are fertilized in the lab and replaced in the Fallopian tubes.
Frozen embryos: If the woman does not want to get pregnant during the first cycle or wish for second child in the future,frozen embryo is the right procedure.

Questions about IVF Treatment

In vitro fertilization IVF is mingling the eggs of a woman with the sperms of her partner in a laboratory dish. After 2-3 days, the fertilized embryos are directly transferred into her uterus. It is the most commonly used treatment and is popularly known as test-tube baby.
It is a procedure for those with fallopian tube issues, and also for conditions like endometriosis, male factor infertility and unexplained infertility. The specialist access the patient's history and guides him for treatment appropriate for them.
No, not at all. In 50 percent cases, the female is the cause while in another 40 percent case, the male partner is infertile but in the remaining10 percent, the reasons go unexplained. Specific tests are done for its determination.
Yes, it is fully treatable with the right diagnosis from a specialist doctor and the right treatment.
If done with the right assistance, it is an affordable treatment but the condition of the couple and the treatment chosen, play important roles.
Although there is no specific number but the doctor can tell better.
Generally, a patient is sedentary for 24 hours after pre-embryo placement in the uterus. Exercises such as jogging, horseback riding, swimming, etc. should be avoided until confirmation of pregnancy. Other regular activities can be done.
Pregnancy can be confirmed using blood tests done after13 days of egg aspiration, after which ultrasounds are done on a gap of 30 to 40 days.
Yes, there is at the time of multiple embryo transfer. Around 25 percent of pregnancies are twins. Triplets can be seen in around 2-3 percent of cases.
Generally it takes around three weeks. Fertility drugs are prescribed for stimulating the ovaries. Then during 4-6 days prior to ovulation, the female is monitored through ultrasound and check on hormone levels.
The doctor takes this decision. Generally, three to four embryos are transferred but the age of a woman and the quality of the embryos is also considered.
Patients have various other options regarding the disposition of the remaining embryos. They can freeze the embryos for later use, can donate or simply dispose them.
The patient should not be older than 45. The doctor can guide better after considering the medical history as well as FSH levels of the female partner.
ICSI is a procedure of intracytoplasmic sperm injection into the egg of the female. This advanced process has been developed for helping a couple in achieving the highest chances for fertilization during IVF treatment.

Questions about Assisted Reproduction

Assisted Reproductive Technology, ART is the title given to various fertility treatments inclusive of In- Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Gamete Intra-Fallopian Transfer (GIFT) or Zygote Intra-Fallopian Transfer (GIFT), Intracyto-plasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (MESA) and Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE).
Advancements in the field of medicine, ARTs and technology have made pregnancy possible for a good amount of couples who opt for such treatments. The success rate from a past few years has gone quite high (it depends on a number of factors).
The clinics offering such therapies take a good amount of care. However, there can be some side effects due to prescribed medications. It is always better to discuss this issue with the doctor.
Sperm selection means the variation of the chances that a pregnancy of a particular gender will involve the physical separation of sperms. The human sperm is responsible for the determination of the sex of potential pregnancy.
The tests done are used for checking fertility in a woman during the occurrence of ovulation. There are other tests too, for detecting any abnormalities in her reproductive system.
For testing male infertility, a semen analysis done. If stats are believed, in about 40 percent of the cases, the cause lies with the males.
IVF is the process where the ovaries of the female partner are stimulated to produce eggs. These are later removed and put her partner's sperm in a petri dish for fertilization. The embryos are then transferred into her uterus after 2-3 days.
It is a medical centre specializing in the methods of diagnosis and treatment of fertility problems. It has a highly qualified specialist staff.
Yes, they are, according to evidences and studies all around the globe. But in some cases, if the father had the problem of sterility, then the child born out of genetic origin (using the Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), might have the same problem.
Both are of 2 types but are different from each other:
Sterility  - Primary: When a couple has not been able to conceive after a year of unprotected intercourse.
Secondary : When after having a child, a couple has not been able to conceive another pregnancy after unprotected intercourse for 2-3 years.
Infertility - Primary: When a couple conceives but has not been able to maintain a pregnancy for long (till child birth).
Secondary : When a couple after first successful pregnancy and labor, has not been able to maintain a second pregnancy for long.
Fundamentally, fertility problems affect a couple as a whole. The evidences say that in 50 percent of the cases the problem is with the female partner but in the other 40 percent cases, the male partner is the cause while in the remaining 10 percent cases, the reasons are unexplained. Proper amount of tests are done to determine the cause.
The chances of fertilization as well as pregnancy depend on a number of factors such as the conditions of a couple, the age factor and also the ART that is being used.

Questions about Intrauterine Insemination

It is the process of transferring, washed motile sperms into the uterine cavity by using a fire plastic catheter , through the cervix. This is generally the first step, (cost-effective too) for enhancing the fertility in a woman.
Fertilization takes 24 hrs after ovulation and implantation takes around 5-10 days after ovulation.
Medicinal protocol in brief is :
  • Clomiphene Citrate is consumed from period days 3- 7.
  • Injections are given (if required)
  • Follicular growth is monitored (from day 11 of cycle )
  • LH surge and estrogen level during the cycle are monitored
  • Once a follicle reaches 19-20 mm size, a slot of hCG
  • IUI is performed after 36-40 hours of hCG
  • Adjustments in the ovulation induction protocol are made (as per individual need)
A lady should avoid heavy exercise, jogging or high impact aerobics, before the IUI cycle. After the process, little rest is advisable. A pain killer might also be prescribed.
SO-TOC is also one of first infertility treatments of infertility. While the aim of SO-TOC is to ovulate 3-4 eggs, the aim of IVF aim is to ovulate more than 10 eggs. The monitoring of cycle is same for both.
Before the treatment, a woman must have atleast one open fallopian tube (either according to hysterosalpingogram or tubal dye study). Blood tests for hormone FSH is also done on cycle day 3. Semen analysis of the male partner is also done. Generally both the partners go through blood grouping, blood test for sexually transmitted diseases, for HBsAg, antisperm antibody test and post coital test.
Naturally, during intercourse, sperms deposit in the vagina and then travel through the cervical mucus. But in IUI process, since the cervix is by- passed, numerous sperms are available. As sperms will be placed in the uterine cavity, they are first washed (through various methods) for getting rid of any dead cells, bacteria or seminal fluid. This may take around an hour.
it is possible to freeze sperm sample before an IUI if the partner is not available during the process. But before the freezing, a complete blood work is done. Then the sample (through masturbation is collected in a sterile container. Lab then does a complete semen analysis after which the sample is frozen.
The general time span is around 20 years but every individual's sperm react differently to the freezing process. The post thaw analysis can tell the right span.
Single women or a couple where the male partner has sperm related problems (or in case of men with genetic problems too) who cannot afford expensive treatment can opt for donor IUI.
In IUI procedure, the healthiest sperms are washed sperm and injected into the uterus adjacent to the fallopian tube. This avoids any cervical factor problems and also removes the low quality sperms.
IUI is generally selected by a couple, which have atleast one patent fallopian tube and those who have been trying to conceive for atleast one year of unprotected intercourse. It is also selected by patients with the following issues:
  • Low sperm count
  • A hostile cervical condition [too thick cervical mucus]
  • Sexual dysfunction.
  • Decreased sperm motility

Questions about Surrogacy

Surrogacy is one of the methods of assisted reproduction. The term Surrogate means substitute. Surrogacy is a legal arrangement between a couple/ individual and a woman who is going to conceive and then carry pregnancy till the time she will give birth to their/ his child. This option is picked up by a couple who is unable to have a baby due to any reason.
There are three types of Surrogacy
  • Altruistic surrogacy
  • Gestational surrogacy, and
  • Commercial surrogacy
Commercial surrogacy is the most common type of surrogacy where a gestational carrier is paid for carrying a child in her womb for the full term. It is mostly opted by higher income infertile couples who can afford the cost involved. This is a legal process in many countries including India.
Generally, a fertility clinic transfer around 3-4 embryos for better chances of pregnancy.
Till date, there has been no scientific data in the form proof that the children born through IVF surrogacy have any developmental issues.
Yes, the couple/individual very much has the right to select a surrogate. You might be given an option of 3-4 surrogate mothers so that you can select any one as per your preference.
Yes, throughout the course pregnancy, the couple is provided regular updates about the health of the surrogate mother. The details and results done at the clinic are also provided to them.
The Contract papers are drafted by the Solicitors and then are signed by both the parties. These papers contain every single detail about the rights and responsibilities of both the parties and also of the fertility clinic. These legal formalities are important and necessary.
A woman should be in the age group of 22-26 years and should have her own child/children as well. A surrogate has to clear some basic pathological and other baseline investigations. She might also have to go through a psychological assessment too.
Another attempt can be made with another surrogate or with another egg donor.
The situation here is same as a child being born through the natural process. The doctor takes the decision as per the condition of the surrogate.

Questions about Assisted Hatching

Assisted Hatching refers to the process of assisted reproductive technology wherein a small hole is made in the zona pellucid of an embryo, using a micromanipulation, to facilitate embryo hatching.
Assisted Hatching is an IVF technique wherein the covering around a fertilized egg is weakened by making a hole in it. It is done to improve the chances of the embryo getting embedded in the uterus.
Many couples choose to go for the assisted hatching procedure during their IVF treatments due to the benefits associated with the technique:
  • It requires less embryo transfer than other techniques
  • It is quite faster than other methods
  • It allows blastocyst culture
The disadvantages associated with the laser assisted hatching are same as with other IVF methods. They are as follows:
  • Damage to the embryo
  • High possibility rate of monozygotic twinning
The most common indications for the use of assisted hatching technique are as follows:
  • Women over 37 years of age
  • Women who's follicle stimulating hormone baseline level is elevated
  • Women having poor quality embryos with conditions such as slow cell division rate and excessive fragmentation.
  • Women with repeated IVF failure
  • Women having IVF with embryos having a thicker outer shell
Mechanical, chemical and laser-assisted are the three methods of performing assisted hatching. The mechanical method involves an incision to be made in the zona pellucida with the help of a special glass needle. During chemical treatment, the acidic hatching solution is poured around the outer shell to absorb a part of the zona pellucida. In the laser assisted hatching, a high beam is focused on the zona pellucida to eliminate it in a very precise ratio.

Questions about Dental Treatment

No, dental treatments are not painful if proper techniques are used. This can actually make the treatment, a pain-free one
No, it is not. Latest machinery minimizes the exposure of the patient, resulting in the least amount of harm. It is important to follow prescribed guidelines.
Yes, the process of making the teeth whiter is known as teeth whitening.
No, it is not. There is an option of porcelain or white composite fillings.
No, not at all. There is an option of all acrylic Flexi partial.
No, it is not necessary as implants dentures can also be temporary.
It is important that one should avoid dental infections by following important measures as they can be dangerous. One should get a regular dental check –up done for timely detection of infection. A diabetic patient should take utmost care as such infections can be fatal .
The remaining food particles on the teeth is turned into acid by bacteria that eats the enamel away, then into dentine and finally Pulp. This results in tooth ache and decay.
Bacterias in plaque release substances, harming gum tissues (Gingivitis). When plaque isn’t removed around the gum line, it becomes tartar. The infection slowly spreads to bones and teeth fall might happen (Pyorrhea).
  • Eat food with vitamins and minerals.
  • Avoid eating sweet food between meals.
  • Brush your teeth regularly day and night.
  • Get regular dental check-up done (once in every six months).
Visit the dentist without delay who might take an X-ray. After examining , he might put medicated cement on the fractured tooth or may place a band or a crown if the case is serious.
Cavity is a condition of loss of the enamel surface of the tooth due to plaque or improper brushing. When acid attacks the inner layer of tooth, it causes severe pain. Bacterias spread infection in the inner pulp of teeth, destroying nerves resulting in bad breath.
The decayed part of the tooth needs to be removed and then cavities have to be filled.
If a treatment is not done, the bacteria can infect the inner pulp of the teeth, destroying the nerve. If this happens root canal therapy needs to be done.

Questions about Root Canal Treatment

Root Canal is a term referred to define the natural cavity in the center of the tooth. It is a medical treatment, related to the dentistry branch, wherein a tooth is saved from getting infected.
Root Canal Treatment is required when the blood supply of the tooth is infected through injury.
If a tooth pulp is damaged, it breaks down and bacteria start growing within the pulp chamber. The bacteria can cause infection which in turn causes swelling, bone loss and drainage problems.
If you undergo a dental treatment repeatedly, there is a chance that your tooth pulp gets irritated. Other reasons include deep decay, large fillings and crack in the tooth.
Some symptoms that lead to the Root Canal treatment include:
  • Severe aching in the tooth upon chewing
  • Prolonged sensitivity
  • Darkening of the tooth
  • Swelling in the gums
  • Importunate pimple on the gums
It is a highly successful dentistry treatment with over 95% success rate. Many a times teeth fixed with a root canal lasts lifetime. The last step of the root canal treatment  is the application of restoration such as crown and fillings.
Earlier it had a reputation of being a painful procedure. But with the advent of modern technology and anesthetics, the procedure has become painless like never before. Pain killers are recommended to prevent post operative discomfort.
If an infected dental pulp is not treated, the infection will continue to multiply and spread across the surrounding tissues such as root, bones and gums. The infection could also enter into facial spaces and can cause swelling. Such condition is often life threatening.
No. Due to the state of the art technology and new materials, your tooth will not lose its color and luster during the procedure. If you have a tooth that has a discolored root canal, go to your dentist. It could be a bacteria that have infiltrated beneath the old filling.
If you will wait longer to get the tooth crown permanently repaired, the bacteria in saliva, food debris can infect the root canal treatment by entering between the temporary filling and the root surface. In that case, you’ll have to undergo another root canal treatment.

Questions about Apicoectomy

Apicoectomy is a surgical treatment for the removal of the upper part of a dental root and also the pathological process, granuloma or a cyst.
The surgical process of apicoectomy is required for the treatment of any kind of dental complication with necrotic pulp such as inflammations and granuloma, but it can also be needed in case there is a chance for revitalization of the teeth.
The process takes somewhere around 20 to 60 minutes but the duration primarily depends on the position of the teeth as well as the structure of its roots.
The surgery is completely painless as it is done under local anesthesia.
In most of the cases, the patients return back to their normal activities the very next day after the surgery. Your dentists can give you a better estimate about this.
A dentist suggests a surgery one when he feels that it is the best option for you but there is no guarantee in any surgical procedure. You can have a discussion about the chances of success.
No, in most of the cases gum recession does not happen and if it happens, it is very little.
Pain and swelling stays till 3-4 days after the surgery but if a patient feels excruciating pain and swelling even after 3-4 days then he should better pay a visit to his dentist.
No, it is not possible that the infection will come back. No tooth or nerve left to create an infection.
In the initial days, it is better to drink plenty of fluids. One should avoid hot liquids and foods. On the day of the surgery, intake soft food and cool liquids. Once you start feeling normal, you can return to your normal avoid but for around 8 to 10 days, you should avoid eating any hard or crunchy food item as it can create irritation in the surgical area.

Questions about Periodontal Flap Surgery

If excess plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth, it destroys the fibers and bones around the tooth as a result of Periodontal disease. Periodontal Flap Surgery refers to the procedure wherein the periodontist treats defects in the bone surrounding the infected teeth and eliminating periodontal pockets.
Following the Periodontal Flap Surgery, a patient has to take several precautions such as :
  • Application of gentle wet gauze to the area of bleeding
  • Avoid strenuous exercise
  • Avoid consuming hot beverages
  • Follow the medication properly
  • Apply ice packs if there is any swelling
  • Avoid brushing on the surgical area for around 5 to 6 days
Several newer techniques and materials have been evolved in Periodontal Flap Surgery due to the advancement of medical science. The most recent method is regeneration wherein the lost tissues are reconstructed to a certain extent using modern techniques such as bone grafts and guided tissue regeneration.
Just like chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma and hypertension, Periodontal Flap Surgery has no permanent cure. Even after the surgery, you’’ have to go for regular checkups.
Depending upon the  needs of the patient, the cost of Periodontal Flap Surgery varies. The cost of treating gums is less as compared to replacing lost teeth.
Periodontal Flap Surgery is recommended for people with moderate or advanced periodontitis. A treatment called scaling and root planning is done first and if it fails flap surgery is the next option.
After the surgery, you may experience moderate  discomfort. Your periodontist will recommend you with pain killer medicine. Except the surgical site, you should brush and floss rest of your mouth on a daily basis. The time period involves around 7 to 10 days.
If the patient does not go for the recommended treatment, there may be chances of periodontal infections, cavities in the roots, sensitivity to hot & cold beverages and loss of teeth.

Questions about Reconstructive Dentistry

It is a dental treatment for improving the beauty and health of  smile of a person. Basically, any dental process involves two elements, functions  and Aesthetic. Keeping both in mind is an important thing for better results.
This dental treatment covers various kinds of procedures from teeth whitening to repairing, replacing, shaping, straightening or improving the appearance of the teeth and the smile of a patient. Often the issues are related to veneers and laminates, as they have become a popular method of improving smiles.
This treatment involves a number of options for patients, which includes easy and inexpensive procedures too. Those who need wide restoration may have  to shell out huge amount of money.
From the last decade, there  has been a lot of advancement in the quality qualities of materials that are used in the process, like porcelain and composite resins. Now they look even more natural. After the  introduction of lasers, dental surgeries have become easier and quicker.
Full mouth restoration, also known as neuromuscular dentistry, is the restructuring of each and every tooth. The main idea is the restoration of ideal occlusion (bite), alleviating pain from TMJ problems (temporomandibular joint or jaw joint). The basic idea is to come up with healthy functioning and thus a healthy smile.
Temperomandibular Join, TMJ is the point that functions the the time of opening and closing of the jaw. TMJ pain can be treated by a number of theories used by different dentists. During this pain, many people complain about neck pain, upper back pain, headaches, sore muscles etc. Reconstruction dentistry works on the basis that after the shortening of the teeth with any method then the jaw over-closes putting pressure in the TMJ. The vertical dimension of the teeth has to be restored or positioned carefully so that the TMJ can work properly.
Full mouth restoration includes restoration every single tooth to the best color, length, shape and position. To get this treatment done, first you need to visit the dentist who will diagnose the problem and then the methods for relaxing the muscles of the jaw. Then comes the preparatory stage and lastly, the treatment.
If the color of your teeth is a problem, then there are various teeth whitening methods available. After a discussion with the dentist, a proper decision can be taken.
The problem of  uneven gums can be solved in a number of ways. Today laser treatment is being widely used as it is painless, quicker, easier and even healing also happens fast.
Replacement of missing teeth has become easier because of advancement in techniques and materials offered today such as dentures, bridges, implants and so on. Getting missing teeth brings back self-confidence in a person as well as increases the longevity of one’s natural teeth by removing the stress being put on them. Moreover one’s taste, speech and digestion also get improved.

Introduction Surgical Hair Transplantation

The QR 678 consists of NATURALLY occurring growth factors. These growth factors are in any case present in normal scalp skin. What we have done that is revolutionary is that we have identified which of the many growth factors present are important in hair growth, have prepared these growth factors in vivo by genetic engineering and tested the concoction in 750 patients in a randomized clinical trial, by injecting the same within the scalp skin. So:
  1. The QR 678 consists of material normally present within the scalp skin.
  2. We replenish these very materials which have become depleted in folks who are losing hair.
  3. Growth Factors are simply put, proteins. As these proteins are injected in the superficial most portion of the scalp skin and the injections do NOT even cross the skin barrier, these growth factors are NOT absorbed systemically into the blood stream.
  4. The only side-effect we encountered in our trial was mild infection in one patient. This patient had pre-existing dandruff and even though this was treated, he did develop very mild scalp infection, which responded favorably to oral antibiotics. And one out of 750 patients is 0.13%! Compare that with the side effects of typical common medical procedures.
A QR Code is a code used in medicine derived from Quick Response . 678 signifies there is no answer. This molecule has been named QR 678 to signify a Quick Response to a disease which earlier had no answer! There is a lot of ongoing research world over to develop a wonder drug to treat this problem of hair loss, though treatments from medications to surgery are currently available. However, not many benefit, sometimes they just dont work, there are a large number of unsatisfactory results, some patients are not suitable for available therapies, cost is huge for surgeries, results are not long lasting, side effects are a concern, etc.
So, lets look at this from the perspective of a few worried consumers and how hair loss can truly impact confidence & lives. Akshay, whocame to me and said Doctor, I am 28. I have lost out on a couple of good prospective marriage matches because my barren head makes me look 20 years older. I have taken all available conventional treatment but it hasnt helped. Will my scalp ever become fertile again? Can you save my dying follicles and give them life again?
A growth factor is a naturally occurring substance capable of stimulating cellular growth, proliferation and cellular differentiation. Usually it is a protein which is present locally and causes growth of that particular tissue. Growth factors are important for regulating a variety of cellular processes & act by binding to specific receptors on the surface of their target cells.

Stage I:
This research was being conducted in collaboration with the IIT Mumbai (2006), to develop a new nano-molecule drug delivery system for Retinoblastoma. This drug delivery system is injected directly around the diseased eye, so that the side effects due to intravenous delivery of the drug could be avoided. A few days after the injections were given around the eyes of each mouse, I observed that the hair around the mouses eye started disappearing due to local contact with the drug. This led him to speculate that there must be some local factors which are essential for hair growth and which were being affected by Carboplatin, since there was no other way Carboplatin could affect the hair growth, since the drug is not absorbed into the body post injection around the eye.
This was interesting as fordecades, we believed that the internal health of the body was the most essential element for hair growth. This new postulate that hair growth could be influenced by local growth factors, despite the internal health of the body being perfect, was brilliant, revolutionary and new.
However, knowing that local growth factors may cause hair growth is one thing, but proving the same and finding which ONE of the hundreds of local protein growth factors actually caused hair growth or the absence of which caused hair loss, was a daunting task! These phases, undertaken in joint collaborationwith a few top Indianinstitutestook four years of pain-staking research, & prolonged animal studies as well as human trials.

Stage II:
The next step was to identify by a process of scientific research the most likely ones of the growth factor proteins present in the scalp skin which could cause growth. By a process of scientific exclusion, we identified a total of five odd growth factors which could potentially play a role in hair growth.

Stage III:
It was not enough to merely identify the molecules though. We then prepared these five growth factor molecules artificially, outside the human body, by genetic engineering inthe laboratory. These molecules were then synthesized in five different compositions and proportions, and it was decided to inject the solution into the scalp with the intention to deliver the molecules directly to the hair roots, without having to cross the skin barrier. This entire process took one and a half years.

Stage IV:
A pilot trial was then conducted with five volunteer patients in each of the five groups (n = 25), with early to moderate hair loss, being subjected to the injections. The results were the best consistently in one particular group of human volunteers. This newly created molecule thus seemed to be the most likely to cause hair growth.

Stage V:
The findings of the pilot trial needed to be validated. A randomized clinical trial was set up comparing this new molecule in different concentrations and at different treatment frequencies with a placebo injection, in 750 patients. More than 80% hair growth was seen in about 6 months for more than 90% patients who tried this injection therapy. Results in some cases are even better than hair restoration surgery. This clinical trial involved 100 patients and spanned more than a year. This trial was double-blinded and finally unequivocally proved the efficacy of this cocktail of three growth factors in causing hair growth! Thus, was born the concoction which everyone was waiting for! This molecule was named The QR678.

The epidermal hair follicles are regulated by interactions between the dermis and epidermis (the 2 layers of the skin),and undergo stages of growth (anagen), involution (catagen), and silence (telogen).Factors from the hair root which is present in the dermis, act as inducting signals for this cyclic growth of the hair. There are stem cells in an area of the hair follicle which pick up these signals and form a down growth into the dermis to form the hair shaft.
The network of capillaries surrounding the base of the hair follicle delivers the nutrients amino acids, vitamins, minerals necessary for proper functioning. Cell division in the hair follicle is extremely fast. This rapid cell proliferation requires a constant supply of nutrients. The inducting signals for the hair follicle growth are the growth factors identified byour teamin the revolutionary artificially prepared concoction QR678.
Ruchi, a 35 year old guest relations professional said I decided to go for it because it was a short 15-20 minute procedure, almost painless, and fitted my budget right. I underwent 8 sessions and I now am happy that I gave my hair the shot in time.
Said Akshays father with a smile, My son married Samantha whom he met at the same clinic .In fact they both were undergoing the same treatment, however they did not know each other before this. They are a happy couple now and often guide people seeking help with their hair raising story. I think it is time I get some injections myself before it is late. I am proud of the fact that Indian doctors have given my children something which is so exclusive and unique.
This revolutionary treatment is being considered for presentations and publications in the scientific community world-wide and is currentlyawaiting a world-wide patent. Now, folks all over the world can have a hair raising tale to tell!
Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, India, (one of Indias biggest hospital and most successful ones) where The Esthetic Clinic is currently located has been pretty much inundated with calls, emails and the rush over the QR 678 Growth Factor injections for hair growth. Most people who have been here for a while tell me that they have never seen anything like this before!

Questions about Laser Dentistry

A laser is technological device which  produces a beam of concentrated light bringing in energy into a patient's mouth, thus, sterilizing the infected area and sealing blood vessels minimizing pain or blood loss. This helps the dentist in doing the treatment with more efficiency and accuracy. Laser dentistry is a hassle-free treatment. In many cases, even the need of anesthetic injections is reduced.
After the invention of lasers in the 1960s, their use in dentistry was experimental and were used in limited hospitals. Now after more technological advancements, the use  of lasers has become all the more effective. They are being widely used all around the world as it is a more comfortable process.
Laser dentistry has two major benefits. One is that, it makes the treatment more precise and accurate for the dentist. The second is that it reduces the pain as well as blood loss, during the process and after it.
There are numerous procedures that can be done with laser dentistry, such as gum shaping, teeth whitening, detection of cavities, and gum reshaping and so on.
The procedures of laser dental procedures vary in their treatment type, time, age of the patient and so on. Your dentist can tell you better about this.
The time of recovery depends on the procedure type, the body type that how does it heal after any injury or surgery, and so on. But in most of the cases, the recovery time is very small.
Many times, in the case fillings, like crowns or onlays, laser dentistry cannot be performed. Your dentist would be able to guide you better.
The main reason that lasers are being used in dentistry is that they increase the level of accuracy and also the size of incisions is also reduced to as less as one-fifth of a millimeter across. Laser tools are more accurate.
There are various benefits of laser dentistry:
  • A dentist does not use a drill, thus making the procedure less-painful for the patients
  • In many cases, the use of anesthesia is also reduced
  • The user of laser makes the process more precise
  • In comparison to the older treatments, the recovery time is also faster.
  • Reduction in the amount of bacteria in diseased gum tissue as well as tooth cavities
  • Less loss of blood during and after surgery
If a dentist is an expert, nothing as safe as laser dentistry is.

Questions about Pediatric Dentistry

It is a surgical specialty in the dental branch of medical science wherein the dental health of infants, toddlers and teenagers is taken care of. The training of pediatric dentist is no different from a regular dentist. However they are taught different ways to make your visit to the dentist less traumatic.
It is very important to have a healthy primary teeth as cavities can often create problems in the development of the permanent teeth. The primary teeth help in:
  • Proper chewing and eating.
  • Providing space for permanent teeth and guiding them to the correct position.
  • Allow normal development of the jaw bones & muscles.
The only way of preventing cavities in the mouth is maintaining good oral hygiene.
  • Always clean your mouth with a toothpick to avoid leftover particles that create cavities.
  • Always clean your mouth with a wet gauze to wipe out plaque from teeth and gums.
  • Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle filled with anything other than water.
Yes, baby teeth are prone to cavities as soon as they emerge into his/her mouth. The tooth decay happens when plaque gets spread across the teeth. It produces acid that attacks the tooth enamel. Also, if your baby's mouth is kept dry for a long time and have a lot of bacteria in the mouth, the acid will cause loss of minerals in the tooth enamel.
There are several factors due to which stains occur on the child’s teeth. They can be cavities but not all the time. It is very important for you to undergo a dental check-up wherein the stained surface is inspected and dentist determines whether your child’s teeth needs treatment or not.
If your child has a toothache, you need to follow certain steps:
  • Clean the irritated area with warm salt water and put a cold compress on the face if there is swollen.
  • Give your child acetaminophen for any type of pain.
  • Lastly, see a dentist as soon as possible.
In order to prevent cavities and other dental problems, a dental check up in every six-months is recommended. Depending on your child oral health, the pediatric dentist will suggest you the precise check-up time.
Meet the pediatric dentist and let him evaluate the fluoride level in his/her main source of drinking water. In case your child is not getting enough fluoride, your child will be given fluoride supplements
If thumbsucking and pacifier habits go on for a very long time, it can be harmful. However, most children stop such habits after the age of 3. If not your pediatric dentist will recommend a mouth appliance.

Questions About Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

A well known surgical specialty of the dental branch, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery refers to the treatment of birth deformities, diseases and injuries pertaining to the functional and  aesthetic aspect of the mouth and teeth.
Implants refer to the titanium prosthetic that are placed in the jaw bone to replace missing teeth. The implant is fixed into the tooth bone to provide a strong base for the synthetic teeth. Thereafter, a prosthesis that resembles the original teeth is formulated and attached to the titanium fixture.
The total number of teeth in the mouth of an average adult is 32 while the average mouth can accommodate only 28 teeth. Also known as third molars, wisdom teeth need to be removed to avoid congestion in the mouth.
The removal of wisdom teeth usually takes place in the teenage years. Your dentist will conduct an oral examination and x-ray of your mouth to decide whether teeth need to be removed or not.
There are four types of anesthesia given to the patient depending on their comfort level. Their names are local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, IV sedation and general anesthesia. Local anesthesia is given to numb the area. The second one is nitrous  oxide that you sniff through your nose. With the use of IV sedation, you’ll become partially conscious.
Eating and drinking are prohibited only if you are going to take IV sedation. In that case, you cannot eat or drink 6 hours prior to your surgery.
A sinus lift is a surgical procedure wherein the sinus membrane is elevated within the mouth followed by placing of bone graft onto the sinus floor, allowing dental implants to get placed on the back side of the upper jaw.
A cleft refers to the gap  in the lip, roof of the mouth and soft tissue in the back of the mouth. It occurs when the two sides of a palate does not join together. It is a birth deformity wherein a child can suffer either from cleft lip or palate or both.
Yes. A surgical treatment can make you get rid away from this birth deformity. Most  surgeons believe that a cleft lip should be repaired at the age of 3 months. A surgical procedure also depends upon the general health of children.

Treatment Packages

Orthopaedics

Orthopaedics is the medical specialty that focuses on injuries and diseases of your body's musculoskeletal system. This complex system, which includes your bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves, allows you to move, work, and be active.

Infertility and IVF Treatment

Fertility is the natural capability to produce offspring. ... Fertility differs from fecundity, which is defined as the potential for reproduction (influenced by gamete production, fertilization and carrying a pregnancy to term). A lack of fertility...