Kolkata, February 2026: CK Birla Hospitals, CMRI hosted a two-day knowledge-sharing and clinical exchange program, focusing on the latest innovations in interventional radiology, with special emphasis on the diagnosis, screening and minimally invasive treatment of venous diseases, an increasingly under-recognized public health concern in India. The program highlighted the role of advanced endovascular embolization techniques in cancer treatment, offering non-surgical options for selected oncology patients.
The program brought together internationally acclaimed interventional radiologist Dr. Carrafiello from Milan alongside Dr. Avik Bhattacharyya, Director & HOD, Interventional Radiology, CK Birla Hospitals, CMRI, to deliberate on advanced, image-guided techniques used in managing conditions such as varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pelvic venous disorders and complex vascular malformations.
Venous diseases are on the rise across age groups due to sedentary lifestyles, prolonged standing or sitting, obesity and post-COVID vascular changes, yet remain significantly underdiagnosed as symptoms are often dismissed as cosmetic or lifestyle-related issues. Individuals in professions that involve long hours of standing, such as traffic police personnel, chefs, teachers, retail workers and factory staff, are particularly vulnerable. The session was aimed to build awareness around early symptoms, timely screening and treatment options to prevent long-term complications such as chronic pain, swelling and ulcers.
The knowledge-sharing initiative highlighted how interventional radiology has transformed venous care, replacing conventional surgery with pinholes, image-guided procedures that minimize pain, reduce hospital stay and enable faster recovery. The key highlight was live case-based discussions, showcasing high-end venous and vascular interventions that were earlier available only in select metro cities but are now being routinely performed at CMRI, Kolkata, significantly improving access to advanced care for patients across Eastern India.
Speaking on the initiative, Dr. Avik Bhattacharyya, Director & HOD, Interventional Radiology, CK Birla Hospitals, CMRI, said, “Venous diseases often progress silently and are widely misunderstood, leading patients to seek medical help only when complications arise. Through this program, we aim to demonstrate how early diagnosis and minimally invasive interventional radiology techniques can transform outcomes. Bringing global expertise to CMRI also reflects our commitment to making world-class care accessible closer to home for patients in Eastern India.”
Mr. Sombrata Ray, Unit Head, CK Birla Hospitals, CMRI, added, “This initiative is not just about clinical advancement, but also about community awareness. By focusing on high-risk occupational groups and lesser-known venous conditions, we aim to empower people with knowledge that can lead to early intervention and better quality of life. CMRI continues to invest in advanced technologies and global collaborations to strengthen Kolkata’s position as a center for cutting-edge, minimally invasive healthcare.”
The program underscores CK Birla Hospitals, CMRI’s continued focus on clinical excellence, global collaboration and patient-centric innovation, while reinforcing Kolkata’s growing role as a hub for advanced interventional and minimally invasive healthcare in Eastern India.
About CMRI
CK Birla Hospital, CMRI stands as a distinguished NABH accredited multi-specialty hospital established in 1969 in Kolkata. With 440 beds, CMRI is committed to delivering top-notch medical care to all segments of society. CMRI ensures cutting-edge care with its ICUs, all supported by an experienced team of super-specialists. CMRI is the first hospital to introduce Robotic Joint replacement in the city. The hospital also runs a state-of-the-art Respiratory Intensive Care Unit which is as per international standards. It also runs transplant programs for both the adult and paediatric population. CMRI is the only hospital in eastern India with QAI accredited stroke centre. CMRI is accredited by the National Development Board, Government of India, for DNB courses. The institute also houses a nurses’ training school recognized by the West Bengal Nursing Council.
