In a rare medical milestone, a baby delivered at just 24 weeks of pregnancy has survived despite severe, life-threatening complications from the moment he was born. Weighing only 640 grams and small enough to fit into a doctor’s palm, the baby arrived 16 weeks earlier than a normal full-term pregnancy. According to doctors, he was so weak that saving him was almost beyond what modern treatment can manage. The case is now being described as a rare ‘micro preemie miracle.’
‘He did not cry and had a very low heart rate’
The newborn was in a critical condition at birth. He did not cry and had a very low heart rate. The paediatric and neonatal team at Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj immediately began emergency treatment and shifted him to intensive care. Doctors monitored him round the clock from the very first minute.
Underdeveloped lungs and kidneys added to the risk
The baby’s lungs were too underdeveloped for him to breathe on his own, so he was placed on long-term ventilator support. His kidneys were also not fully developed, which made the situation even more complicated. In the first week, his weight dropped to 550 grams, raising serious concerns. Despite this, the medical team continued close monitoring and provided specialised treatment to keep him stable.
‘Every gram of weight gain felt like a victory’
Dr. Rahul Nagpal, Principal Director and Head of Paediatrics and Neonatology, said that survival at 24 weeks is only 10 to 15 per cent. “With strict infection control, careful fluid management and constant observation, we avoided major risks like brain bleeding and infections,” he said. “Every gram of weight gain felt like a victory. Watching him recover and go home healthy was a proud moment for all of us.”
Discharged after 90 days in the NICU
Senior Consultant Dr. Shradha Joshi said the baby fought through every challenge. “After 90 days in the NICU, he was discharged at 1.8 kg. Today, at six months, he weighs 6 kg and all his scans, vision, hearing and brain are normal,” she said, thanking the nursing staff for their constant support.
Dr. Gurvinder Kaur, Facility Director, said the case shows how expert medical care and advanced technology can save even the most fragile newborns.
“This case reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team. It brings hope to many families who face high-risk preterm births,” she said.