Delhi: Born at 24 weeks, 640g baby survives after 90 days in NICU at hospital

Delhi: A baby born at just 24 weeks of pregnancy, weighing only 640 grams and small enough to fit in a human palm, has survived in what doctors describe as an exceptionally rare medical milestone. Delivered 16 weeks before full term, the newborn faced life-threatening complications from the moment he entered the world.

Doctors at Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, said the infant did not cry at birth and had an extremely low heart rate, prompting emergency resuscitation and immediate transfer to intensive care. With severely underdeveloped lungs, he was placed on prolonged ventilatory support and started on critical medications, while the medical team monitored him round the clock, adjusting every parameter to keep him alive.

His challenges did not end there. The newborn’s kidneys were underdeveloped, limiting their ability to function properly, and his weight dropped to 550 grams in the first week. Despite the steep risks, the team at Fortis Vasant Kunj managed to stabilise him through continuous monitoring and highly specialised neonatal care..

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“Survival of newborns at 24 weeks is only about 10–15 per cent, which means just one in three premature infants makes it,” said Dr Rahul Nagpal, Principal Director and Head of Paediatrics and Neonatology at the hospital. “With round-the-clock care, careful fluid management and strong infection control, we were able to prevent brain bleeding and infections — the most dangerous threats at this stage. Each gram of weight gain was a milestone for us. Seeing him go home healthy was a moment of pride.”

Dr Shradha Joshi, Senior Consultant in Neonatology, said the newborn overcame every complication that arose. She credited the nursing staff for their exceptional dedication. After 90 days in the NICU, the baby was discharged at a weight of 1.8 kg. Now six months old, he weighs 6 kg, with normal vision, hearing and brain scan results.

Dr Gurvinder Kaur, Facility Director of Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, said the case demonstrates how advanced medical technology and coordinated care can transform outcomes for extremely premature infants.

“This case is a remarkable example of medical expertise and compassionate care coming together to save a life,” she said. “It highlights the tireless work of our doctors, nurses and support staff, who gave this baby the best possible chance.”