Durdans Hospital Archives

February 14, 2022

Durdans Hospital, located at No. 03 Alfred Place, Colombo 03, became the first private sector hospital in Sri Lanka to be equipped with the world-class ZEISS KINEVO 900 microscope to further enhance theatre operations. DIMO, one of the leading diversified conglomerates in Sri Lanka, recently completed this installation, in line with its efforts to elevate the local healthcare sector with the latest technologies.

Since its inception in 1945, Durdans Hospital has built a reputation for regional leadership in medical excellence and innovation based on a simple philosophy of improving the health of the community to be driven by passion and compassion. Inspired by this purpose, the hospital, in partnership with DIMO, took the initiative to install the state-of-the-art microscope ZEISS KINEVO 900 which is a new surgeon-driven robotic visualization system that merges the functionality of a surgical microscope with 4K and 3D visualization, along with specialized robotic control.

Durdans Hospital constantly seeks to bring the world’s best practices in terms of technology to Sri Lanka, to ensure an enhanced patient comfort as well as a reduced rate of surgeon error. DIMO’s introduction of ZEISS KINEVO 900 was the ideal solution that Durdans Hospital was looking for. Through this optical, navigation and simulation information are streamed into the microscope’s eyepiece and projected on large monitors in the operating room, providing a detailed perspective for the operating room staff. All parties including co-surgeons, surgical assistants and medical residents are now able to view the high-resolution images in real-time while the 3D glasses provide enhanced visualization of neuroanatomy.

ZEISS KINEVO 900 has several features that are the first of its kind, including a specialized robotic control system called PointLock which enables surgeons to focus on a particular point in the surgical field and move the microscope in a spherical arch without losing focus. The use of a foot pedal allows surgeons to navigate safely around the patient during surgery as opposed to repositioning the patient. PositionMemory stores magnification and focus settings for key regions of the brain and QEVO®, a micro-inspection surgical tool, is engineered with an angled design, allowing surgeons to look around complex structures that are out of the microscope’s range. The Digital Hybrid Visualization with integrated 4K camera technology allows heads-up ocular-free surgery, offering the freedom of movement for surgeons.

The Deputy Director of Medical Services of Durdans Hospital, Dr. Jithendri Perera stated, “We aim to be at the forefront of Neurology and Neurosurgery with state-of-the-art medical equipment for our Neurosurgeons. The ZEISS KINEVO 900 Microscope will be a valuable tool for our surgeons to make precise decisions in the operating theatre. Furthermore, excellent patient care is of paramount importance to us as we seek to meet all our patients’ needs. With skilled specialist doctors, technological and infrastructural advancements, Durdans Hospital is set to become the leading healthcare provider for Neurology and Neurosurgery in 2022.”

“We will be expanding our services with a newly constructed Centre of Excellence for Neurology which will be further divided into the four major departments: Neurology, Neurosurgery, Neuro-diagnostics, and Interventional Radiology. A rehabilitation unit with facilities for patients with neurological conditions will be established to provide long-term care for patients and this unit will support the four departments mentioned above”, Dr. Perera further stated.

Speaking on the latest installation at the Durdans Hospital, Wijith Pushpawela, Executive Director of DIMO who also oversees Medical Engineering operations of the Group stated, “DIMO is in the forefront of introducing the latest technological advancements to the local healthcare sector. We are privileged to equip Durdans Hospital with this next generation Visualization System, which has more than 100 new features from ZEISS, the world-renowned brand in the fields of optics and optoelectronics. We have collaborated with Durdans Hospital for several similar projects in the past and we are looking forward to facilitating their future initiatives while sharing our expert knowledge in the medical engineering field to build a healthier nation. As the authorized representative for ZEISS in Sri Lanka, DIMO is fully geared to provide all required after-sales services.”

The latest ZEISS KINEVO 900 microscope at the Durdans Hospital assists medical practitioners to make well-informed decisions while providing convenience and accuracy in surgeries.

December 7, 2021

With a vision of creating healthier nations making healthful living easy affordable and fun, ayubo.life, Sri Lanka’s most versatile health & wellness app marking the world Diabetes month brought to life, a virtual step challenge to raise awareness on the effects that Diabetes can have on you and your family.

Partnering with Durdans hospital, our Healthcare partner for the challenge and Singer Fitness, our Fitness partner, ayubo.life has organized a 100,000 step virtual challenge where you can be on your way to a healthier life style and enhance your knowledge on controlling and managing Diabetes. Believing in incentivising for good behavior, ayubo.life in collaboration with the partners have organised a range of rewards to celebrate your walk to a healthier way of life. Anyone can participate in the challenge by downloading the ayubo.life app on App Store , Play Stores and Huawei App Gallery.

This virtual walkathon is designed to encourage individuals asking the right questions about Diabetes. Diabetes one of the most debilitating yet preventable NCDs today in Sri Lanka, is a serious illness that many people are unaware they may have or at risk of being diagnosed with. According to studies conducted in the recent past 1 of 12 adults suffer from diabetes in Sri Lanka and childhood diabetes is on the rise, the main cause for the rise in numbers are static and unhealthy lifestyles maintained by individuals The good news is that the large majority of type 2 diabetes is preventable, simply by adopting a healthy life style.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Durdans Hospital and Singer Sri Lanka PLC to make

Sri Lanka a healthier nation which also shows their belief in our visionary journey and its implications. This shared and resonated vision by our partners encourages us in our efforts to create healthier lifestyles across the nation,” Chief Executive Officer, Chandima Cooray of ayubo.life.

“We are happy to partner with ayubo.life on this programme. At Singer, we believe in the importance of health and fitness which led us to introducing a range of high quality fitness equipment that is affordable. By partnering with ayobo.life we are able to further contribute towards a healthier living,” said Mr. Shanil Perera Marketing Director for Singer Sri Lanka PLC.

ayubo.life works with a mission to create healthier nations by making living healthy easy,

affordable & fun. ayubo.life achieves this through an ecosystem of innovative health & wellness

solutions in each market it serves. With ayubo.life, one can book a doctor, have a video or in

person consultation, get medicine delivered home, book lab tests, receive reports straight to the

app, and get these reports reviewed by doctors without leaving home. Embark on a journey of

wellness with offerings across fitness, diet, and mind. ayubo.life is owned and operated by

Digital Healthcare Solutions (Pvt) Ltd. who operate in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh & Seychelles.

July 6, 2021

The Commercial Bank of Ceylon has deployed all-in-one, Android-powered Point-of-Sale terminals to Durdans Hospital in Colombo to enable customers to make convenient and secure tap-and-go and scan-and-pay payments.

With these new devices, Durdans Hospital adopts both QR-based wallet payments under LANKAQR and secure Near Field Communication (NFC) technology at its premises in a single device, to offer safety to its customers in terms of minimising touch points through contactless-payment options.

The Commercial Bank all-in-one POS device deployed to Durdans Hospital allows the processing of transactions via VISA, Mastercard, UnionPay, LankaPay and JCB cards as well as QR-based wallet payments under LANKAQR. It offers customers a frictionless and cashless payment experience and drastically reduces the waiting time at checkout counters. The device is equipped to accept EMV/Chip, Magstripe, NFC and QR-based transactions, offering customers the convenience of paying via the platform of their choice, quickly and securely.

NFC-enabled cards are more secure than those with magnetic strips, and their contactless communication capability means that holders of these cards need not relinquish their cards to third parties when making a payment via a terminal or device with the same technology.

Positioned as the most advanced Android POS device in the country, the Android Smart Terminal issued to merchants by Commercial Bank supports the highest number of payment options available in Sri Lanka. It also supports QR-based payments of LANKAQR, Visa QR, Masterpass (MasterCard QR) and UnionPay QR. Commercial Bank’s POS is the first POS device certified to accept contactless payment card transactions and QR-based payments under LANKAQR in Sri Lanka.

The Durdans Medical Laboratory Network and Diagnostics Department is managed by an expert team of pathologists and laboratory scientists who handle thousands of samples a day. The team is committed to excellence in the fields of biochemistry, microbiology, and genetics, and works in close collaboration with its clinicians to deliver comprehensive and accurate diagnostic results.

Sri Lanka’s first wholly carbon neutral bank, the first Sri Lankan bank to be listed among the Top 1000 Banks of the World and the only Sri Lankan bank to be so listed for 11 years consecutively, Commercial Bank operates a network of 268 branches and 931 automated machines in Sri Lanka. The Bank’s overseas operations encompass Bangladesh, where the Bank operates 19 outlets; Myanmar, where it has a Microfinance company in Nay Pyi Taw; and the Maldives, where the Bank has a fully-fledged Tier I Bank with a majority stake.

January 19, 2018

Health checks done regularly can help identify risk factors before they evolve into an illness or detect diseases at an early stage. Another advantage of health checks is the fact that risk factors and symptoms of critical illnesses are not always visible or felt. Comprehensive Health Checks at Durdans Hospital are aimed at preserving individual health and are designed to screen risk factors and symptoms for multiple non communicable diseases simultaneously.

An array of screening/diagnostic health checks are provided at the Durdans Executive Wellness Centre. Health Checks are designed to meet the personalized needs of individuals. Basic Health Check, Regular Health Check, Executive Health Check and Platinum Health Check are screening packages each with a differing range of tests that are designed to look into different aspects of health in a holistic manner.

The newly refurbished Executive Wellness Centre, located on the 3rd floor, is a one-stop screening facility where individuals and families can experience convenience and superior service. Dr. Shreen Willathgamuwa, Resident Family Physician at Durdans Hospital offers a free consultation to all individuals, where their personal and family history will be discussed. Dr. Willathgamuwa says, “This is an important area in the health check up process to customize the most suitable Health Check package and other relevant tests.” Following the screening, the results will be interpreted along with a complete physical examination. A referral is done if needed.

As Heart Disease is a leading concern for many Sri Lankans, Good Heart Good Health Packages from Durdans Hospital are tailor-made screening packages for heart health. Both men and women can choose a regular or executive package to get an assessment of their heart condition. The choice of the cardiologist remains with the patient.

Durdans Hospital is a pioneer in preventive healthcare where a multidisciplinary panel of experienced specialists lends their expertise for a comprehensive diagnosis. The accuracy of health checks are supported by specialized and state of the art radiological and laboratory services.

For appointments please call 011 2 140 163 or the Durdans 1344 Helpline.

January 5, 2018

Medical laboratory investigations guide clinicians in their diagnosis where accurate, reliable and timely reports with quality checking are sought after by all. With a history of over 2 decades in medical laboratory diagnostics, Durdans Laboratory comprises an established network of over 55 Durdans owned locations and over 2500 partner collection centres island-wide, dedicated in supporting medical specialists and patients with convenience.

Dedicated to serve patients with care and promptness, medical laboratory technicians and support staff work around the clock to collect, transport, analyse and report results under the guidance and scrutiny of an eminent panel of a consultant pathologist. Furthermore, Durdans Laboratory further enhances convenience and patient care by enabling mobile sample collection service in most parts of Sri Lanka.

The diagnostic arm of Durdans Hospital is synonymous with specialised diagnostic services. “We have a panel of over 700 laboratory investigations in the areas of Biochemistry, Heamatology, Clinical Pathology, Immunology, Special Chemistry, Microbiology, Histopathology and Molecular Biology and are committed to constantly introduce new investigations that support the areas of preventive and curative medicine” says Mr. Mahanil Perera, Head of Laboratory.

Reliability is measured by accuracy, precision, specificity and sensitivity. To ensure that these parameters are met, strict internal and external quality checks such as CAP, AAB and Bio Rad Quality Controls are conducted regularly to verify whether the range of the results is in line with the expected measurements.

Furthermore, high safety and quality standards are maintained by Durdans Laboratory; evidently being awarded the Gold Seal of Approval by Joint Commission International (JCI) by the world’s leading accreditation organisation based in the US. In addition, Durdans Laboratory has ISO 15189 accreditation by the Sri Lanka Accreditation Board (SLAB) for Conformity Assessment which is the National Accreditation Authority for Sri Lanka.

With our loyal customers at heart, Durdans Laboratory strives for clinical excellence and technological advancements to ensure accuracy and reliability. The rapid expansion plan and the introduction of new systems will add further convenience to the community along with access to reports via email and the Durdans website. An easy to remember Durdans Helpline 1344 could be dialled from any network.

December 15, 2017

The leading cause of death in Sri Lanka is ischemic heart disease. Ischemia, where the heart does not receive enough blood due to the build-up of plaque or a blood clot can lead to a heart attack, irregular heartbeat, chest pain or even sudden death. Durdans Hospital Heart Centre is a cutting edge facility devoted to the wide ranging care of cardiac conditions and also promotes preventive care for cardiac health.

Dr Naomali Amarasena, Consultant Cardiologist at Durdans Hospital says, “At-risk individuals for ischemic heart disease are those with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, family history, history of smoking, obesity and sedentary lifestyle. Healthy Diet and lifestyle changes can drastically reduce the risk of developing heart diseases.”

Regular heart screenings are encouraged for at-risk individuals as early intervention can reduce adverse outcomes. To evaluate and assess the condition of the heart, individuals may undergo a series of tests for blood pressure, weight and body mass index calculation, cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose(blood sugar) and other factors. Besides blood tests and chest X-rays, tests usually also include echocardiograms, cardiac stress testing and EKGs to test the electrical activity of the heart.

Vascular and cardiac interventions may vary from open surgery to minimally invasive surgical and catheter based management. Procedures performed include Angioplasty, Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG), Valve Repairs and Replacements (Mitral and Aortic), Atrioventricular Septal Defect Surgery, Artificial Heart Valve Surgery, Stent Placement, and advanced treatment for heart failure which includes Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT). For heart rhythm problems, the implantation of permanent pacemakers, Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs) and other devices is employed.

Durdans Heart Centre has an elite panel of highly skilled cardiac specialists and is backed by a state of the art cardiac care facility. Together, the Centre has the capacity to treat heart conditions ranging from common to complex, including high risk procedures without adverse outcomes. For cardiac consultation appointments call the Durdans Heart Centre on 011 2 140 205/6.

November 16, 2017

According to the latest statistics, the prevalence diabetes in Sri Lanka had dramatically increased, especially among the urban population. Overweight and lack of exercise were the main causes of diabetes among children, while family history, food habits and obesity were the main causes among adults. The Durdans Diabetes and Endocrinology Clinic is dedicated to preventing complications that could increase risk of morbidity and mortality through correct diagnosis of diabetes in all its forms and by offering comprehensive treatment programmes that can enhance the quality of life for patients with diabetes.

Uncontrolled levels of blood sugar, high blood pressure and cholesterol can cause complications to skin, eyes, kidneys, feet and nerves which increase risk of morbidity and mortality. Therefore, it is paramount for patients with diabetes to have a support system of doctors, healthcare professionals and informed family members. These include a primary physician, endocrinologist, dietician, eye specialist, psychiatrist and podiatrist. Dr. Uditha Bulugahapitiya, Consultant Endocrinologist, says, “Specialist care is important for patients with diabetes as the focus would not only be on controlling the disease but on making assessments to prevent complications.”

Diabetes can cause peripheral neuropathy, a common complication that causes loss of sensation in the feet. This is caused by high blood sugar levels that lead to nerve damage. Patients have to be extra careful about their feet as they can develop sores and cuts that go unnoticed due to loss of sensation. Dr. Bulugahapitya states, “Patients should do regular diabetes screenings to prevent complications such as neuropathy and non-healing foot ulcers that could end in high likelihood of lower-limb amputation which increases risk of morbidity and mortality”.

Durdans Hospital, a leader in regional healthcare, promotes preventative and holistic management of Diabetes. Therein, the Durdans Diabetes and Endocrinology Clinic is devoted to comprehensive Diabetes care that includes an array of podiatry services such as regular foot assessment (neuropathy screening), special foot tests and custom fittings for shoes. A qualified pool of specialist consultants, nurses, support staff and an interdisciplinary team supports patients in overall diabetes care. The clinic offers one the convenience of every possible diabetes screening to be obtained from one location. The Durdans Diabetic and Endocrinology Clinic is open from 8am to 5pm on weekdays and 8am to 1pm on Saturdays. To know more about the Diabetes and Endocrinology clinic or to make an appointment call 011 2 140 210 or the Durdans 1344 helpline.

October 26, 2017

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in Sri Lanka. Heart disease includes stroke and other cardiovascular diseases, with coronary artery disease (CAD) being the most common.

The increasing prevalence of sedentary lifestyles among individuals, along with poor nutrition and eating habits and rising cholesterol levels, is a lethal concoction for the heart. However, heart disease is preventable, and the key to managing heart and vascular disease is managing risk factors such as high total cholesterol, high blood pressure, high blood glucose and smoking.

Consultant cardiologist at Durdans Heart Centre, Dr. Naomali Amarasena says, “Regular screenings are important, because they may help to find risk factors in the earliest stages, when they can be treated appropriately. The treatment could include lifestyle changes and medications, as determined by the physician.”

The frequency with which screening should be done against heart disease depends on the risk profile of the patient. Dr. Naomali further explains: “There are risk models where you can assess a person’s risk. If it’s a low risk individual even once in five years may be appropriate whereas a high-risk individual should increase the frequency. This further depends on age and family history.”

By bringing together cardiac services onto one site, Durdans Heart Centre has established itself as Sri Lanka’s leading centre of excellence for adults with congenital heart disease. Affiliated with global leaders in cardiac care, Durdans Heart Centre has performed the highest number of beating-heart surgeries in the country since its inception, including coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and its modifications in all types of adult and paediatric cardiac cases.

To learn more about Durdans Good Heart Good Health screening call, 011 2140 000 or Durdans 1344 Helpline.

October 21, 2017

The cancer incidence reports suggest that of all cancer types, Sri Lankan females are most susceptible to breast cancer. The probability of development occurs in 1 for every 9 females in Sri Lanka. However, this does not mean that it is a disease affecting only women. Out of the 2300-2500 total cases reported last year, 110 were men.

People with sedentary lifestyles and a family history of cancer are at higher risk of developing breast cancer. The rise in breast cancer is mainly due to a lack of awareness about the disease and its preventative measures. Dr. Shreen Willatgamuwa, Resident Family Physician at Durdans Executive Wellness Centre says, “Women should get themselves screened as early as 30 years, continuing till 60 years. If a family member has been diagnosed with breast cancer, they are advised to get themselves checked 10 years earlier than the age of onset of the family member. Perhaps the most important action family members can take is to encourage their loved ones to undergo breast cancer screening.”

Breast screening usually consists of a physical examination, followed by either a breast ultrasound scan or a mammogram. A mammogram will be suitable for women above 40 years, while an ultrasound scan is for women below 40 years. Meanwhile, men should be aware of a breast cancer possibility and get a doctor’s opinion if any abnormality is detected. In addition, a genetic screening can be done to verify the risk of developing breast cancer in the event a family member has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Durdans Hospital’s comprehensive breast screening programme provides patients with individualized care for cancer prevention, detection and treatment. The Durdans Executive Wellness Centre offers breast cancer screening, genetic testing, breast cancer diagnosis and treatment with referral to the relevant specialists. Patients also receive regular follow-up and continuous care with the same doctor who will give the necessary advice and counselling. For appointments call 011 2 140 000 or the Durdans 1344 Helpline.

September 15, 2017

The multi-storey, 22-split level standalone car park facility can accommodate approximately 200 parking slots

Championing an ambitious re-development and remodelling program aimed to optimise healthcare delivery, Durdans Hospital opened its new purpose-built car park building to the public, which will be accessible via Alfred Place, adjoining R A De Mel Mawatha. The multi-storey, 22-split level car park building is considered as the only standalone car park building in Colombo that can accommodate approximately 200 parking slots.

The Rs. 1 billion investment project commenced in 2016, when it was revealed that more than 700,000 patients were using the hospital annually. Even more importantly, the car park building will free up the old parking areas for development.

At the official opening ceremony, Mr Ajith Tudawe, Executive Chairman of Ceylon Hospitals PLC, said: “We are delighted that the long overdue limiting factor of a purpose-built car park building at Durdans Hospital has now been addressed. It will bring real benefits to the hospital and our valued clientele and prospective customers, not only in terms of improving visitor parking on site, but also because it enhances our service delivery.” He commended contractors for completing the building work in due time and thanked patients, medical specialists and visitors for their patience throughout the construction.

As well as being located much closer to the hospital, the new car park building will provide convenience to customers 24/7. The facility will soon be seamlessly integrated with a multifaceted smart-sensor system to introduce customers to advanced levels of convenience in parking. It will also incorporate sustainable practices and energy saving features that are par with international standards.

Durdans Hospital becomes the first private sector hospital in Sri Lanka to be equipped with the world-class ZEISS KINEVO 900 Microscope

VIRTUAL WALK – to Commemorate the World Diabetes Month

ComBank powers Durdans Hospital with POS devices for contactless payments via LANKAQR & NFC

Durdans Hospital Health Checks for Comprehensive Preventive Care and Improved Quality of Life

Durdans Hospital Islandwide Laboratory Network offers High Convenience and Reliability

Durdans Hospital Heart Centre the Premier Centre for Comprehensive Cardiac Care

Preventative Diabetes Care at Durdans Diabetes and Endocrinology Clinic

Good Heart Good Health Screening Dedicated to You at Durdans Hospital

Durdans Hospital Encourages Screening for Breast Cancer

Durdans Hospital Opens New Purpose Built Car Park Building