Surgical Excellence at GMC Jammu Saves Life of Bus Accident Survivor with Shattered Chest

JAMMU, APRIL 25, 2026: In a remarkable display of surgical precision, the Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery department at the Super Speciality Hospital, Government Medical College Jammu, has saved the life of a 47-year-old man following a catastrophic bus accident in Ramnagar.

The patient arrived in critical condition with a completely shattered sternum and multiple rib fractures, resulting in a life-threatening “flail chest” that paralyzed his ability to breathe. Compounded by a pre-existing seizure disorder and severe internal bleeding within the chest cavity, the survivor was in a state of advanced shock.

Dr. Shyam Singh, Head of the department, noted that such high-velocity trauma leads to rapid deterioration, making immediate stabilization of the chest wall the only path to survival.The surgical team performed a sophisticated internal fixation using specialized titanium plates and screws to meticulously realign the disrupted breastbone and secure the fractured ribs.

This advanced intervention restored the natural anatomy of the chest, enabling the patient’s lungs to function properly again. Dr. Puja Vimesh, Head of Cardiothoracic Anaesthesiology, reported a dramatic clinical turnaround, allowing the patient to be taken off ventilator support shortly after the procedure.

Now recovering in the Intensive Care Unit, this successful outcome highlights the world-class trauma capabilities of GMC Jammu in managing complex injuries that were once considered fatal.