MARCH 2025
EDITION 7 : VOL 3
OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF IMA MARTHANDAM
Dear Readers,
EDITORIAL
April is here — the season of sun-kissed holidays,
sandy footprints, and stories waiting to be written. As
families pack their bags and children take a break
from schoolbooks, we bring you a travel special edition
filled with inspiration, reflection, and wellness from
every corner
We start with our Gallery of Images — snapshots of IMA's vibrant activities
across regions, a testament to how far our reach extends even as we stay rooted
in service. We have a Message from the Chairman of the IMA FSS Committee,
guiding us with his vision and thoughtful reflections — much like a compass on a
journey of solidarity.
Our spotlight feature, “Bone Voyage Diaries”, is a travelogue that carries you
across borders and into the heart of medical exploration. Whether it’s trekking up
hills or diving into culture, this journey reminds us that healing doesn’t only happen
in hospitals — sometimes, it begins with a passport and a curious mind.
Worried about the screen-time surge during holidays? Don’t miss our “Life Hack
to Keeping Kids Off Screens” — an easy, breezy guide to keeping children
engaged with nature, travel, crafts, and conversation.
Also included is a Case Report from a Young Surgeon, showcasing skill, passion,
and precision. Flip further for a thoughtful clinical focus on Childhood Obesity, a
rising concern in post-pandemic parenting.
To keep things light and fun — we’ve wrapped up with a holiday-themed
Medical Quiz that tests your brain while letting you smile.
Send us your travel sketches, poems, short stories, or even a doodle of your
dream destination. Let's feature them in the next issue! Dr. Pradeep Kumar.
Happy Travels, Dr. Priyadarshini.
Dr. Jenish Krishnan.
Greetings to all.
Dear Esteemed Members,
With the wind at our backs and our sails full, we
are picking up speed and ready to navigate
towards a truly successful year together! This
month has seen the resounding success of two
DR PRIYA SOLOMON
visionary projects spearheaded by our State
PRESIDENT, IMA President.
IMA MARTHANDAM
We conducted an impactful Traffic Awareness Program at Kadayal
Higher Secondary School and a crucial Teenage Awareness Program
focusing on menstrual hygiene and the hazards of excessive mobile phone
usage at Mariagiri School, Kaliyakkavillai. My sincere gratitude goes to our
dedicated Secretary, Dr. Vinodhini Pradeep, and our efficient Finance
Secretary, Dr. Sowmi Edwin, for their tireless efforts in making these events
such a triumphant success. We also deeply appreciate the unwavering
support and encouragement of all our IMA Branch Members.
Our Free Tailoring Training Centre for women continues to flourish, and
we eagerly anticipate your ongoing contributions to elevate its success
even further.
Furthermore, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to each and every one
who contributed articles to this edition of MIMA, as well as to our valued
sponsors. Your invaluable feedback will be instrumental in shaping an even
better next edition. We earnestly solicit your continued support for our
upcoming programs and activities.
Warm regards,
Dr. Priya Solomon
Secretary’s Report
Dear IMA Marthandam Family,
As the summer sun blazes high, so does the energy
and enthusiasm of our branch! It gives me immense
joy to connect with you through this April Summer
Special edition of MIMA, a heartfelt reflection of our
collective commitment and progress.
This month has been nothing short of inspiring. Under
DR VINODHINI
the dynamic leadership of our State IMA President,
SECRETARY,
our branch successfully executed two powerful IMA MARTHANDAM
outreach programs:
We also celebrated another enriching academic event on March 29th, where
we had the privilege of listening to Dr. Koshy Mathew Panicker on Diabetic
Foot: From Callus to Amputation – How to Prevent and Treat. IMA Fine
Arts Committee conducted a Photo Contest in which our members actively
participated.
We proudly share that Dr. Balagan Raja has been elected as the Chairman of
the IMA FSS Committee, and our own Dr. Anoop S.K. and Dr. Pradeep
Kumar are now District Coordinators for FSS. We encourage all members to
enroll in the FSS scheme to secure a strong and compassionate support
system for your families.
UPCOMING GOALS & REMINDERS:
We encourage all members to renew your annual membership. Your
subscription of Rs. 2000 is vital to keep our branch thriving.
Bank Details for IMA Marthandam Subscription:
A/C No: 144100050300571
Bank: Tamilnadu Mercantile Bank Ltd., Marthandam Branch
IFSC: TMBL0000144
To all the contributors of this issue of MIMA. Please continue to share your
articles, feedback, and ideas for future editions.
Let’s stay connected, stay active, and continue growing together—both as
medical professionals and as a strong community.
With warm regards and summer cheer,
Dr. Vinodhini Pradeep
TRAFFIC AWARENESS WALK
Building a generation of responsible citizens –
Traffic Awareness Walk held at Kadayal Govt School by IMA Marthandam
IMA TNSB PRESIDENT ACTION PLAN
MARCH MONTH CME
Heartfelt thanks to everyone for attending the CME program. 🌼
Your participation and enthusiasm made the session truly enriching.
Looking forward to seeing you all again next time
MONTHLY ACADEMICS
MESSAGE FROM
CHAIRMAN, IMA TNSB FSS COMMITTEE
My dear esteemed IMA colleagues,
At the outset, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all FSS members for
unanimously electing me as the Chairman of IMA FSS for the term 2025–
2027.
I am proud to be working alongside a vibrant team comprising the FSS
Secretary, Treasurer, and our dedicated Management Committee members.
Together, we aim to deliver even better outcomes and strengthen our
fraternity.
Our IMA Marthandam branch has always shared a deep and meaningful
connection with the FSS. In fact, the FSS I scheme was a visionary initiative
conceptualized by our great leader, Dr. K. Vijayakumar, during his tenure
as State President in 2004. It was born with the noble mission of supporting
our colleagues’ families in their time of greatest need.
Subsequently, the FSS II scheme was launched under the dynamic
leadership of Dr. J.A. Jayalal, during which I served as FSS Secretary and
Dr. Solomon Jaya as Finance Secretary. Today, as Chairman, I am privileged
to serve alongside enthusiastic young leaders, Dr. Anoop and Dr. Pradeep,
as District Coordinators—committed to taking this legacy forward.
This is not just a scheme; it is a lifeline of compassion and solidarity—where
you support the family of a fellow doctor during their irreparable loss, and
simultaneously, you safeguard your own family in case of an unforeseen
event.
FAMILY SECURITY SCHEME I
Eligibility
Should be a life member of IMA TNSB
Age limit upto 55 years
Non-Refundable amount will be collected depending upon the age
Below 30 years - 3,000
31-40 years - 10,000
41-45 years - 30,000
46-50 years - 50,000
51-55 years - 55,000
All the FSS I member will contribute Rs.200 each for the death of any FSS
I member Every year 60 death was estimated (200*90=18,000) and the
amount should be paid in advance.
Currently the death benefit for the FSS I members is 18 lakhs.
A testament to our collective commitment:
FSS I: 1,279 families supported | Total disbursed: ₹207,55,95,210
FSS II: 222 families supported | Total disbursed: ₹18,24,62,700
These significant contributions reflect the strength of our unity and the
nobility of our mission.
I earnestly urge all our dear members to enroll in both FSS I & II, and
encourage your colleagues to do the same. Greater membership means
greater support and enhanced benefits for all.
Long Live IMA.
Strong Live IMA FSS.
Warm regards,
Dr. S. Balagan Raja
Chairman, IMA FSS (2025–2027)
https://www.imatnsbfss.com/
Dr.S.Balagan Raja
CHAIRMAN-IMA FSS
BONE VOYAGE DIARIES:
A SURGEON’S GLOBAL JOURNEY OF
HEALING, CULTURE, AND DISCOVERY
As orthopedic surgeons, we often operate in
high-pressure, high-precision environments. But
outside the OT, there lies a world that offers
equally transformative experiences. Through my
journeys across more than a dozen countries,
documented on my YouTube channel Bone
Voyage Diaries, I’ve come to realize that travel
isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way to reconnect with the Dr.Siddharth Raveendran
ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON
art and humanity behind medicine. NR SPECIALITY CLINIC,
THIRUTHUVAPURAM
From the Clinic to the Cable Car:
In Malaysia, our recent trip took us from the breezy heights of the Langkawi
Cable Car to the vibrant chaos of Kuala Lumpur's markets. We combined
sightseeing with a deep dive into Malaysia’s hybrid healthcare system—an
intriguing blend of public accessibility and private innovation. In Japan, the
precision and discipline of its surgical systems mirror the cultural finesse
visible in everything from their cuisine to architecture. My visit to hospitals in
Tokyo reminded me how even high-tech facilities maintain an almost sacred
respect for patient privacy and dignity.
The Healing Power of Culture:
In Sri Lanka, I observed how traditional herbal medicine still plays a role in
rural care. The use of “Panchakarma” in treating chronic musculoskeletal
pain showed parallels with post-op recovery techniques in modern rehab.
Contrast this with Greece, where I attended a trauma care seminar in
Athens. There, the emphasis was on evidence-based protocols, yet the
warmth of Greek hospitality made even academic interactions feel personal.
East Meets West: Insights from Turkey, Russia & Uzbekistan
BONE
VOYAGE
East Meets West :
Turkey was fascinating for its dual identity—bridging Europe and Asia. While
wandering through the Grand Bazaar or sipping tea near the Bosphorus, I
also learned about Turkey's impressive advancements in orthopedic implant
manufacturing. Russia, on the other hand, showed me the resilience of
medicine in challenging climates, particularly in Siberian trauma centers. In
Uzbekistan, the local approach to orthopedic rehabilitation relied heavily on
community support—an often overlooked but critical factor in long-term
outcomes.
Beyond the Scalpel:
Each trip has been a lesson in patience, humility, and new perspectives. In
Australia, I observed orthopedic research collaborations between universities
and private clinics. In Singapore, the streamlined electronic medical record
systems felt like a glimpse into the future of Indian healthcare. And in
Indonesia, conversations with local doctors highlighted the role of outreach
programs in rural orthopedic care.
The Bigger Picture:
Travel is not just leisure for a doctor—it’s continuous education. Every culture
has its way of dealing with pain, recovery, and healing. By immersing
ourselves in these global stories, we refine our own medical philosophy. Bone
Voyage Diaries is my way of documenting these moments—not just for
memories, but to inspire fellow clinicians to step outside the hospital and
discover the world with a surgeon’s eye and a traveler’s heart.
To my fellow doctors: pack your stethoscope, but also your curiosity. Whether
it’s a temple in Kyoto, a spice market in Istanbul, or a rural clinic in Sri Lanka
—each destination has something to teach us. And when you return, you'll find
your practice enriched, your perspective broadened, and your soul a little
lighter.
Follow my journey on Bone Voyage Diaries for insights, itineraries, and
inspiration. https://www.youtube.com/user/siddharthraveendran
LIFE HACK
How to Keep Children Away from
Mobiles and TV
DR SENTHIL KUMAR
KEEPING KIDS FROM SCREENS
In today’s digital age, children are increasingly
exposed to screens—be it mobiles, tablets, or
televisions. While technology has its place in
education and entertainment, excessive screen
time can harm a child’s physical, emotional, and
social development. As parents, it is our
responsibility to guide them toward a balanced
lifestyle. Here are some practical and joyful
ways to keep children engaged and screen-free
DR.SENTHIL KUMAR
. MS, FICS, FIAGES
SRI PADMANABHA
Spend Quality Time with Your Children HOSPITAL, COLACHEL
Nothing can replace the love, attention, and presence of parents. Children
crave connection, and when they get that from their parents, they are less
likely to look for it in gadgets. Share stories, cook together, read books, play
board games, or simply sit and talk. These simple moments make beautiful
memories and build trust.
Involve Grandparents and Great Grandparents
The bond between children and grandparents is magical. Grandparents often
bring wisdom, stories, and a slower, more patient pace of life. Encourage your
children to spend time listening to stories from the past, playing traditional
games, or learning old songs and customs. This not only strengthens family ties
but also keeps kids engaged without screens.
Creative Projects and Hobbies
Introduce children to creative pursuits like painting, clay moulding, origami, and
puzzles. Activities like Rubik’s Cube solving not only stimulate their brains but also
give them a sense of accomplishment. Keep a dedicated corner at home with
craft materials, colors, and tools where your child can unleash their imagination.
Outdoor Activities Are a Must
Encourage your child to play outside every day. Cycling around the
neighborhood, practicing archery, or playing games like basketball, badminton,
football, cricket, and swimming helps them stay physically active and mentally
refreshed. These activities improve coordination, teamwork, and overall health. If
possible, create a schedule that involves a different sport or game each day to
keep the excitement alive.
Dance Together
Dancing is one of the most fun ways to bond with children while keeping fit. Put
on some music and dance your hearts out! This can be your daily stress-buster
and your child’s happy hour. It improves motor skills, mood, and confidence in
children.
Build a Small Turf for Play
If you have a small space at home or on the terrace, consider converting it into a
mini turf. With just ₹300 per square foot, you can create a soft, green play area
where your child can run, jump, and play safely. This becomes a dedicated play
zone that’s far more exciting than a mobile screen.
Children don’t need screens to be happy—they need connection, creativity, and
movement. By spending time with them, involving extended family, engaging them
in activities, and encouraging outdoor play, we can reduce their dependence on
mobile phones and television. These habits, once formed early, will last a lifetime
and help our children grow into healthy, happy, and well-rounded individuals.
Let’s reclaim their childhood, one screen-free day at a time!
UNUSUAL RECTAL FOREIGN BODY:
A CASE REPORT
Rectal foreign bodies (RFBs) are being reported more
frequently in emergency departments, often due to self-
insertion for sexual gratification. Social stigma causes
delayed presentation, making diagnosis and management
challenging. This case highlights a rare instance of a
retained fruit in the rectum and how it was managed with
minimal intervention and good postoperative outcomes.
Case Summary
A 50-year-old man presented with lower abdominal pain Dr.Jekin J. Sharon
and difficulty passing stools for one day. There was no INSTITUTE OF GENERAL SURGERY,
MADRAS MEDICAL COLLEGE,
fever, vomiting, or signs of peritonitis. CHENNAI
On probing, he revealed inserting a sweet lime into his rectum for sexual pleasure but failed
to retrieve it. He had no history of rectal bleeding or other underlying psychiatric illness.
Clinical examination revealed a firm mass 4 cm from the anal verge. An X-ray confirmed
the presence of a spherical object in the pelvis without signs of perforation or obstruction.
Initial attempts to remove it manually were unsuccessful due to the patient’s anxiety and
inability to relax. He was shifted to the operating room and placed in the lithotomy position.
Under intravenous sedation and a perianal nerve block (avoiding general or spinal
anesthesia), a proctoscope was used to visualize the fruit. It was incised to release pressure
and removed in parts using forceps.
Post-removal sigmoidoscopy showed only mild inflammation. The patient was discharged
the next day after psychiatric counseling, which ruled out mental illness or paraphilia. He
was advised pelvic floor exercises and had improved continence on follow-up.
Discussion
RFBs are typically inserted voluntarily, most often for sexual purposes. Objects range
from fruits and vegetables to bottles, cans, and even electronic gadgets. Complications
include impaction, tears, perforation, or infection. Many patients hesitate to seek timely
help due to embarrassment.
This case demonstrates that most RFBs can be managed transanally with sedation and
local anesthesia. The perianal block used here minimized invasiveness and avoided risks
like urinary retention, hypotension, or headaches common with spinal anesthesia.
Surgical intervention is only required in less than 10% of cases, usually when
complications like perforation are suspected.
A gentle, respectful approach from healthcare providers is key in such situations.
Maintaining patient privacy and offering nonjudgmental care helps build trust and
ensures psychological support post-recovery. Follow-up with psychiatry ensures future
safety and reduces recurrence.
Conclusion
This case reminds clinicians of the growing need to recognize and manage RFBs
sensitively and systematically. Perianal nerve blocks with sedation are effective
alternatives to more invasive anesthesia in suitable cases. Emotional and psychiatric
support is as important as physical treatment to ensure holistic care and prevent
recurrence.
OBESITY IN CHILDREN:
THE SILENT EPIDEMIC
Childhood obesity is defined as a body mass index (BMI) at
or above the 95th percentile for children of the same age
and sex. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates
that over 39 million children under the age of 5 were
overweight or obese in 2020. This condition increases the
risk of developing chronic illnesses such as type 2 diabetes,
cardiovascular disease, and psychological disorders.
Dr Divya J Litton
MD PEDIATRICS, PGPN,
JAYARAJ HOSPITAL
Causes
1. Poor Diet:
• High intake of fast food, sugary beverages, and snacks.
• Low consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
2. Lack of Physical Activity:
• Sedentary lifestyle, excessive screen time, and minimal outdoor play.
• Reduced physical education in schools.
3. Genetic and Environmental Factors:
• Family history of obesity.
• Socioeconomic conditions influencing access to healthy food & recreation.
Health Consequences
Physical Health:
• Type 2 diabetes
• Hypertension and high cholesterol
• Sleep apnea
• Joint and musculoskeletal problems
Mental Health:
• Low self-esteem and body image issues
• Social isolation and bullying
• Increased risk of anxiety and depression
Management
1. Lifestyle and Behavioral Changes
A) Nutrition Counseling:
• Encourage balanced meals with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
• Limit sugary drinks and processed foods.
• Involve the whole family in healthy eating habits.
B) Increased Physical Activity:
• At least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily.
• Reduce screen time to under 2 hours per day.
C) Behavioral Therapy:
• Set realistic goals and monitor progress.
• Reward positive behavior changes.
• Address emotional eating and build coping skills.
2. Family Involvement
Parental support is crucial in modeling and reinforcing healthy behaviors.
• Create a supportive environment with consistent routines.
3. Medical Interventions
• Pharmacotherapy: In selected cases (e.g., severe obesity with comorbidities),
medications such as orlistat may be prescribed under medical supervision.
• Surgical Options: Bariatric surgery is considered for adolescents with severe obesity
when other interventions have failed and serious health risks are present.
Prevention
Prevention is more effective than treatment:
• Encourage breastfeeding and appropriate weaning.
• Promote active play and healthy food from an early age.
• Schools and communities should support wellness programs and nutrition education.
Childhood obesity is a complex and multifactorial condition with serious health implications.
Early identification, family-centered interventions, and a supportive environment are
essential in managing and preventing obesity in children. Collaboration between
healthcare providers, educators, parents, and policymakers is key to curbing this growing
epidemic.
Dr. Priyadarshini. Borderland Gem
FASCINATING
MARTHANDAM
A Town Named After a King Tamil Nadu Meets Kerala
Marthandam gets its name from It’s one of those unique places
King Marthanda Varma of where Tamil and Malayalam are
Travancore, who defeated the spoken almost equally. The food,
Dutch in the Battle of Colachel— clothing, and traditions are a
one of the few times a European beautiful blend of both cultures—
colonial force was beaten by an think dosa and appam on the
Indian kingdom in direct combat. same plate!
Green Gold: Rubber Plantations Wooden Palaces & The Place Where Rivers Meet
Surrounded by rubber estates, Ancient Temples It lies along the Tamiraparani
and rubber tapping is a common The nearby Padmanabhapuram River (a smaller version—not to
local occupation. The lush Palace is made almost entirely of be confused with the major one
plantations are calming to drive wood and was once the seat of in Tirunelveli). The area is full of
through and smell amazing after a the Travancore Kingdom—it even small canals, streams, and fertile
rain. has secret passageways! farmland.
TEENAGE AWARENESS PROGRAM
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TOURIST
QUIZ MASTER
TRIVIA DR. MARK JITTU VINCENT
Please send answers on
https://tinyurl.com/imaquiz3
1. Which city is known as the "City of Canals"?
A) Amsterdam
B) Venice
C) Paris
D) Rome
2. Which mountain range runs along the border between France and Spain?
A) Pyrenees
B) Alps
C) Carpathians
D) Apennines
3. Which city is home to the ancient city of Machu Picchu?
A) Lima
B) Santiago
C) Cusco
D) Rio de Janeiro
4. Which island nation is known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters?
A) Maldives
B) Thailand
C) Vietnam
D) Indonesia
5. Which city is home to the
famous Christ the Redeemer statue?
A) Rio de Janeiro Winners of previous Quiz Competition:
B) Buenos Aires Dr. N. Ashmicaa Nair
C) Lima Dr. Tany James
Dr. Divya J Litton
D) Santiago
CME
DIABETIC FOOT
29.03.25
Sponsored by SUT Pattom, Super Speciality Hospital
