Mumbai's Sion Hospital reopens Skin Bank with advanced technology

Written by Medical Dialogues Team Published On 2024-09-23T16:26:54+05:30 | Updated On 23 Sept 2024 4:26 PM IST

Mumbai: In a significant boost to healthcare services, Sion Hospital in Mumbai has reopened its skin bank, equipped with advanced technology to better serve burn victims and patients requiring skin grafts. This reopening represents a vital advancement in the quality of care for those requiring such treatments.

The skin bank's closure was due to damage to critical equipment during renovations, leading to a nearly two-year shutdown. However, it has now reopened, equipped with a new biosafety cabinet—a significant addition made possible by a generous donation of approximately Rs 3 lakh. This upgrade will enhance the hospital’s capacity to provide safe and effective care.

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According to the Indian Express, Dr Mohan Joshi, Dean of Sion Hospital, stated, “We have received the machine, which costs around Rs 3 lakh, through donation. With this, we can resume accepting skin donations and providing grafts to those in need.”

Dr Joshi explained that the biosafety cabinet is vital for preserving donated skin grafts, as it provides a controlled, sterile environment for safe handling. This ensures that the skin is free from contamination and suitable for use in graft procedures, which is crucial for preventing infections in burn victims.

For the past two years, Sion Hospital has referred burn victims to other centres, including the National Burn Centre in Airoli, due to a lack of operational facilities. Transporting patients delays treatment and adds financial strain. However, with the reopening of the skin bank, timely care can now be provided locally, alleviating some of this burden.

Between 2011 and 2019, Sion Hospital's skin bank successfully collected donations from 900 individuals, benefiting 869 patients with skin grafts. Hospital staff have already notified donor groups about the reopening, and donations are expected to resume soon. The hospital is committed to enhancing patient care and ensuring that individuals in critical need have access to lifesaving treatments.

The reopening of the skin bank at Sion Hospital represents a crucial development in the fight against burn injuries and skin diseases.

Also Read: UP: Skin Bank to come up at SRN hospital at cost of Rs 3.6 crore

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Medical Dialogues Team