Mangaluru: Yenepoya Medical College Hospital (YMCH), Deralakatte, has achieved a significant breakthrough in cardiac care by successfully performing a minimally invasive “keyhole” mitral valve repair on a 73-year-old patient. This marks the first time such an advanced procedure has been carried out in Mangaluru and the Dakshina Kannada district, setting a new benchmark in regional healthcare.
The elderly patient had been suffering from severe breathlessness and fatigue caused by mitral valve dysfunction, including mitral valve prolapse with ruptured chordae leading to severe mitral regurgitation and pulmonary hypertension. Given the high risks associated with conventional open-heart surgery at an advanced age, the medical team opted for a minimally invasive approach.
Advanced procedure reduces surgical risk
The surgery was performed using Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery (MICS), commonly referred to as “keyhole surgery,” which involves a small incision instead of a full sternotomy. This technique significantly reduces surgical trauma, blood loss, and recovery time, making it particularly suitable for elderly patients and those with high surgical risks.
The complex procedure was led by renowned cardiac surgeon Dr K Sakthivel, along with Associate Surgeon Dr Arjun. The team also included cardiac anaesthetists Dr Krishna Prasad, Dr Mohandas, and Dr Vinayak, supported by a perfusionist team led by Ansu Sunny, as well as operation theatre and critical care nursing staff.
Successful outcome and rapid recovery
The surgery was completed successfully, and the patient is currently recovering well with stable cardiac function. According to hospital authorities, the minimally invasive approach played a crucial role in ensuring a smoother and faster recovery.
Medical Superintendent Dr Habib Rahman highlighted that the patient’s post-operative recovery was remarkably swift. Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, which often requires weeks for the chest bone to heal, the patient was able to walk on the first day after surgery and was discharged within just five days.
Benefits of minimally invasive cardiac surgery
Experts emphasised that minimally invasive mitral valve repair offers several advantages, including reduced pain, lower risk of infection, shorter hospital stays, and quicker return to normal activities. The procedure also minimises complications associated with large surgical incisions.
This successful surgery demonstrates the growing capabilities of healthcare institutions in Mangaluru to adopt advanced, patient-friendly medical technologies and deliver high-quality specialised care.
A milestone for regional healthcare
The achievement marks a major step forward in cardiac care in coastal Karnataka, showcasing the expertise and preparedness of the Yenepoya medical team in handling complex cases with cutting-edge techniques.
With such advancements, patients in the region can now access world-class cardiac procedures without the need to travel to metropolitan centres, ensuring timely and effective treatment closer to home.
The success of this case is expected to pave the way for more minimally invasive cardiac procedures in the future, further strengthening the region’s healthcare ecosystem.
