Hyderabad based microbiologist Dr. C. Jairaj Kumar has invented the world’s first of its kind medical device to diagnose damage to nerves for diabetics well in advance and prevent possible amputation of limbs.

Nerve damage, known as neuropathy, can lead to gangrene, diabetic sores and foot ulcers, often resulting in amputation of legs among diabetics.

The damage to nerves is a serious complication that afflicts diabetics with uncontrolled blood sugar levels for a long time. Medical research says one in four diabetics develops ulcer-related problems every year and half of them are subject to infection. Again 20 per cent of them would have to lose their limbs through amputation.

The device, invented by Dr Jai Raj Kumar, a visiting faculty of a Germany University after years of research, warns of early signs of neuropathy and helps in preventing possible amputation of limbs. It was one of the seven indigenous technologies exhibited before the US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in New Delhi on July 19 during her recent visit to India.

The device, now patented by Dr. Jai Raj Kumar, was developed on the principle of chaos science that identifies the areas in disarray in a body. It can generate a report in five minutes. Till now, knowing the accurate levels of damage to nerves in a diabetic remained a difficult proposition for the medical researchers.

“The nerve damage can prevent amputation of limbs when treated in initial stages,” says Dr. Jai Raj Kumar proudly.

Khyatha Abhijith Pharma and Healthcare Systems Company is marketing the device. “Regular screening helps in assessing and taking measures to prevent foot ulcers, gangrene or amputation,” said Dr P S N Raju of the company.