Phototherapy Treatment in India
About Phototherapy
Key Highlights
-
Non-invasive and painless treatment with no needles or surgery required.Highly effective in rapidly lowering dangerous bilirubin levels in newborns.Standard, evidence-based care for preventing serious complications like kernicterus (brain damage).Can be administered continuously or intermittently, allowing for feeding and parental bonding breaks.Modern LED phototherapy units are energy-efficient, generate less heat, and are very safe.
Who is this surgery for?
- Treatment of significant neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (jaundice) to prevent bilirubin from reaching neurotoxic levels.
- Prophylactic use in premature infants or those with known risk factors for severe jaundice (e.g., blood group incompatibility).
- When total serum bilirubin (TSB) levels cross the phototherapy threshold as defined by standardized nomograms based on the infant's age in hours and risk factors.
- As an adjunct treatment for certain rare metabolic or liver conditions that cause elevated bilirubin.
How to prepare
- The baby's bilirubin level is precisely measured via a blood test or transcutaneous bilirubinometer.
- The infant is undressed to maximize skin exposure, leaving only a diaper.
- Soft, opaque eye patches are securely fitted to protect the baby's delicate retinas from the light.
- The baby is placed in a bassinet or incubator under the phototherapy lights, ensuring proper distance from the light source.
- Vital signs (temperature, heart rate, respiration) are monitored regularly.
- Parents are counseled on the procedure, its necessity, and what to expect during treatment.
Risks & possible complications
- Dehydration and increased fluid loss due to more frequent stools; requires careful monitoring of fluid intake.
- Mild, temporary skin rash or bronze baby syndrome (a harmless dark discoloration of the skin).
- Potential for overheating or temperature instability if not monitored.
- Rare risk of eye damage if protective eyewear is not used or becomes displaced.
- Possible separation anxiety for parents due to limited handling during continuous treatment.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Bilirubin levels are checked regularly (every 6-12 hours) to determine when therapy can be stopped.
- Once levels are safely below the threshold, phototherapy is discontinued, and eye patches are removed.
- The baby can resume normal clothing, feeding, and bonding activities immediately.
- Parents should monitor for signs of returning jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes) after discharge.
- Follow-up bilirubin checks may be recommended within 24-48 hours after stopping treatment to ensure levels remain stable.
- No special wound care or medication is needed as the procedure is non-invasive.
-
Typical hospital stay:
2-5 days
-
Expected recovery time:
Immediate (treatment effect is continuous during therapy)
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering phototherapy in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for phototherapy in India include Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Manipal Hospital Goa , Manipal Hospital Hebbal, Manipal Hospital Doddaballapur, Manipal Hospital Salem, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform phototherapy. MediFyr helps you compare pediatrics specialists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for phototherapy compare across other countries where we have data.
Top hospitals for Phototherapy in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated pediatrics teams and experience managing patients undergoing phototherapy.
Bangalore, India
57 Doctors
Dr. vc shrinivas provided exceptional care...
Dr. vc shrinivas provided exceptional care for my pediatrics condition. The treatment was personalized and effective.
Pediatrics Specialists for Phototherapy
Explore experienced pediatrics specialists who regularly perform phototherapy and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 21 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Goa
- 8 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Doddaballapur
- 24 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
KMC Hospital Mangalore
- 17 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
SIMS Hospital Vadapalani
- 28 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Salt Lake
- 16 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Salt Lake
- 27 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur
- 23 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Artemis Hospital Gurgaon
- 15 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Jayanagar
- 21 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Whitefield
- 28 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Salt Lake
- 13 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Dhakuria
- 11 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Goa
- 16 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Gurgaon
- 16 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar
- 25 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur
- 14 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road
- 11 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur
- 31 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Hebbal
- 16 Years Experience
- Pediatrics Specialist
Manipal Hospital Gurgaon