Staff Reporter 

The maxillofacial surgical team from Indian Military Training Team (IMTRAT) and the neurosurgical team of Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital (JDWNRH) conducted the country’s first reconstructive surgery on May 9.

Led by Maj Dr Arunkumar SR and Dr Sonam Jamtsho, the team reconstructed the post-traumatic skull defect for a 57-year-old man at JDWNRH.

The surgery involves extensive pre-operative planning using special virtual planning software and CT scan of the patient for the design of the cranial implant to accurately fit the anatomy of the patient. The planning and fabrication of the patient specific implant was carried out by Jajal Medical Services Private Limited in Gujarat, India with technical assistance from IMTRAT.

“The joint technical venture between IMTRAT and JDWNRH is considered a testament to the time-tested Indo- Bhutan friendship and the dedication of both these institutions to work in tandem for the provision and augmentation of health care for all,” the press release states.