In a groundbreaking medical feat, Sarvodaya Hospital's team of cardiac experts, led by Dr. Ranjan Modi, Senior Consultant in Interventional Cardiology, has successfully conducted a transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedure to address severe aortic stenosis in a patient from Congo. The life-saving intervention underscores the hospital's dedication to providing state-of-the-art cardiac care.

The patient, Roger, had been battling breathing difficulties for several months, escalating over the last 1.5 months. Diagnosis by Dr. Modi unveiled severe aortic stenosis, a potentially fatal condition if left untreated, leading to heart failure. Aortic stenosis, typically affecting those over 60, causes the progressive narrowing of the aortic valve, restricting blood flow and placing considerable strain on the heart.

 The expert medical team, including Dr. Amit Kumar, Associate Director in Interventional Cardiology, swiftly executed the TAVR procedure—a minimally invasive alternative to open-heart surgery. Completed in approximately 30 minutes to an hour, the procedure utilised a small catheter to deliver the valve through a minor incision in the groyne, eliminating the need for open-heart surgery.

 "Early intervention is crucial in cases of severe aortic stenosis," stressed Dr. Amit Kumar.

"The TAVR procedure was promptly performed to prevent further deterioration of the patient's health. Guidelines suggest that even at the early stages of severe stenosis, evaluation and intervention should be prioritised," he added.

The TAVR procedure, requiring coordination among various medical specialists, offers numerous benefits, including avoiding open-heart surgery, shorter hospital stays, and a faster recovery.

Roger's rapid recuperation, spending just two days in the ICU followed by a day in a regular room, showcases the efficacy of TAVR in restoring patients to their routine activities within a short timeframe, the doctor said.

 Dr. Ranjan Modi, Senior Consultant in Interventional Cardiology, emphasised the significance of the intervention, stating, "The goal is to enable patients to lead normal lives as swiftly as possible. TAVR not only circumvents the need for open-heart surgery but also ensures a quicker return to regular activities with lesser chances of infection and reduced post-operative pain."

 "This medical triumph signifies a paradigm shift in the treatment of severe aortic stenosis, offering hope and a new lease on life for patients like Roger. We encourage individuals experiencing symptoms such as breathing difficulties to seek timely evaluation, as early intervention can be a life-saving measure," Dr. Modi added.

This successful TAVR procedure marks a significant milestone for Sarvodaya Hospital, representing a beacon of hope for patients worldwide grappling with severe aortic stenosis.

The hospital said that it remains steadfast in advancing medical interventions that prioritise patient well-being, paving the way for a healthier and more resilient future.