Centre of Advanced Neurotechnology launched at CMC in Ranipet

In a significant step towards strengthening the ecosystem of advanced neurological care and research, Christian Medical College (CMC) and Vattikuti Foundation jointly opened the Center for Advanced Neurotechnology at CMC’s new campus in Ranipet on Saturday.

Speaking at the event, CMC director Vikaram Mathews said the new facility has deployed an advanced MR-guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS) system, expanding non-invasive treatment options for tremor in patients crippled by essential tremor and patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease. “The new center reinforces CMC’s mission to integrate innovation with compassionate patient care, education and research,” he said.

The MRgFUS system at the new center will provide clinical and research opportunities in a wide range of neurological conditions, including patients with epilepsy refractory to treatments, neuropathic and intractable pain, substance abuse and addictions, neuropsychiatric disorders such as depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder, and supportive management of brain tumor.

The clinical focus of the new center will initially include movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor. The center aims to improve access to advanced neurotechnology for patients, especially in non-metropolitan and underserved areas, while also playing the dual role of providing patient care at scale and advancing neuroscience research.

The new center has also brought together senior clinicians, neurologists, neurosurgeons, radiologists and researchers from CMC Vellore and Vattikuti Foundation to collaborate on healthcare and research. “True progress in healthcare occurs when innovations reach the poor. The new center will focus on developing affordable care that is less invasive while creating lasting value for patients,” said Raj Vattikuti, founding chairman of the Vattikuti Foundation.

On this occasion, Vattikuti Foundation CEO Mahendra Bhandrai; I. Rajesh, medical examiner, CMC; CMC doctors and staff were present.