Historic Milestone: Rajindra Hospital Performs Patiala’s First Cochlear Implant Surgery
Patiala, 2 March
Government Medical College (GMC) & Rajindra Hospital, Patiala, has achieved a major milestone in advanced ENT care by successfully performing its first cochlear implant surgery on February 26, 2026. This landmark procedure marks a significant step forward in delivering specialized hearing rehabilitation services in the region.
The historic surgery was carried out by Prof. (Dr.) Sanjeev Bhagat, Head of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ENT), along with his dedicated surgical team. Speaking to the media today at the ENT Department, Dr. Sanjeev Bhagat stated that under the able guidance of Medical Education and Research Minister Dr. Balbir Singh, the entire department team is fully committed to providing high-quality treatment to patients.
Dr. Bhagat further highlighted that the surgery was performed under the expert mentorship of Prof. (Dr.) Surinder Kumar Singhal from Government Medical College & Hospital (GMCH), Sector 32, Chandigarh. Dr. Singhal’s valuable guidance was instrumental in the clinical planning and successful execution of the procedure.
The ENT Department collaborated closely with the Department of Anaesthesia, the Audiology team, Operation Theatre staff, and Nursing Officers to ensure the surgery was conducted smoothly and safely.
The patient, who was suffering from severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss, underwent successful implantation and is stable post-operatively. The patient will now begin regular auditory-verbal rehabilitation sessions.
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Dr. Sanjeev Bhagat credited this achievement to the dynamic leadership of Prof. (Dr.) Raminderpal Singh Sibia, Director-Principal of GMC Patiala, whose vision and strong administrative support have significantly strengthened tertiary-level healthcare services at the institution. The initiative also received crucial support from Dr. Vishal Chopra, Medical Superintendent of Rajindra Hospital, Patiala, who ensured all necessary infrastructural and operational arrangements were in place.
Prof. (Dr.) Raminderpal Singh Sibia stated that with this successful surgery, GMC & Rajindra Hospital, Patiala, has officially launched its Cochlear Implant Programme. This new service offers fresh hope to children suffering from congenital or acquired severe hearing loss. The programme is expected to greatly improve access to advanced ENT care and hearing rehabilitation services across Punjab, he added.
