MMM launches surgical oncology dept

Chennai: The Madras Medical Mission Hosital has added a surgical oncology department to address the growing number of cancer patients. The hospital has also added an international patient ward facility on campus, hospital CEO Dr Raju George said. Data shows at least one in nine people are likely to develop cancer and the incidence of cancer cases is estimated to increase by 12.8% by 2025 as compared to 2020, said the hospital’s head of Oncology Dr Senthil Kumar A C. “MMM sees it as a call to action. Cancer treatment doesn’t end with radiation or chemotherapy alone,” he said. The hospital will provide allied specialities, including services such as physiotherapy, dentistry, ENT, pain services and psychiatry. These are also involved in the rehabilitation of patients, he said. Dr Raju George said a software-based pneumatic transport system also called the chute system which allows for blood specimens, drugs, test reports, bottles, and small surgical equipment to be transported between various units of the facility. The material to be transported is put into a capsule-like container and inserted into the station. The system, which interconnects proceedures such as patients’ registration and examination room, is a hygienic carrier of samples and equipment.