Lucknow — In a groundbreaking achievement, King George’s Medical University (KGMU) has successfully performed its first Whole Lung Lavage (WLL) — a rare, life-saving procedure used to treat Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis (PAP), placing the institution among a select few worldwide capable of such advanced intervention.
The patient, 40-year-old Aniruddh, arrived with severe breathing difficulties, requiring nearly 15 litres of oxygen per minute. A history of long-term exposure to dust from cement and stone blasting raised suspicion of occupational lung disease. After initial stabilisation with High Flow Nasal Oxygen, diagnostic imaging revealed ground-glass opacities and a crazy-paving pattern, both typical of PAP. Diagnosis was confirmed through Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL).
With his condition critical, a multidisciplinary team opted for Whole Lung Lavage, the only proven treatment for PAP. The WLL was executed in two stages — the right lung on June 13, followed by the left lung on July 7, 2025.
This complex procedure was led by:
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Respiratory Medicine: Dr. Rajeev Garg, Dr. Anand Srivastava
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Anaesthesiology: Dr. Shefali Gautam, Dr. Vinita Singh, and team
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Surgical and Operational Support: Prof. Dr. Suresh Kumar and staff
The outcome was a remarkable recovery — the patient is now stable and breathing without external oxygen support.
Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis is a rare lung disorder marked by the buildup of protein and lipid material in the lungs, obstructing oxygen exchange. Whole Lung Lavage, involving saline wash of the lungs under anesthesia, remains the gold standard treatment.
Congratulating the team, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sonia Nityanand called it a “proud moment for KGMU” and a reflection of the university’s leadership in specialised healthcare.
