Manipal: Renovated Dialysis Unit Inaugurated at Kasturba Hospital
Manipal, March 28, 2025: In a significant boost to kidney care services in Karnataka’s coastal belt, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, has inaugurated its newly refurbished dialysis unit. The expanded facility, in addition to the state-of-the-art dialysis center in the Dr. Ramdas Pai Block, enhances the hospital’s capacity to provide advanced renal care, particularly for patients suffering from Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).
Dr. H.S. Ballal, Pro-Chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), inaugurated the upgraded unit, emphasizing its role in strengthening kidney care services. “The revamped dialysis unit marks a crucial step towards fulfilling our mission of offering comprehensive kidney care, including transplant services, to the people of coastal Karnataka,” he said.
The event was attended by Dr. Padmaraj Hegde, Dean, KMC Manipal; Dr. Anand Venugopal, COO, Teaching Hospital, MAHE; Dr. Avinash Shetty, Medical Superintendent, Kasturba Hospital; and Dr. Dharshan Rangaswamy, Professor & Head, Department of Nephrology and Renal Transplant Science, along with senior nephrologists.
Dr. Dharshan Rangaswamy noted the alarming rise in CKD cases, stating that India has one of the highest rates globally, with one in six people affected and over one lakh new dialysis patients added annually. “Kasturba Hospital has been a pioneer in dialysis services since 1971, with a dedicated unit established in 1991. Over the years, it has expanded significantly, and today, the upgraded unit can accommodate 30 patients per shift, offering round-the-clock dialysis services across outpatient and intensive care units,” he said.
Dr. Avinash Shetty highlighted the hospital’s commitment to expanding renal care services beyond conventional offerings. “Kasturba Hospital provides specialized dialysis for pediatric patients, continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), and home dialysis options. Additionally, satellite OPD and dialysis services are available at Dr. TMA Pai Hospital in Udupi, Dr. TMA Pai Rotary Hospital in Karkala, and Anjali Hospital in Byndoor, ensuring accessibility for patients across the region,” he said.
The expansion of the dialysis unit reinforces Kasturba Hospital’s dedication to providing top-tier healthcare, addressing the growing demand for advanced nephrology care in Karnataka.
