Mangaluru: A.J. Hospital & Research Centre has successfully performed Coastal Karnataka’s first advanced transcatheter (pin-hole) procedure to treat a rare congenital heart defect, offering a minimally invasive alternative to conventional open-heart surgery.
The procedure was carried out on a 52-year-old man diagnosed with Sinus Venosus Atrial Septal Defect (Sinus Venosus ASD), a rare congenital condition characterised by a large defect in the upper chambers of the heart along with an abnormal connection of the pulmonary veins.
Minimally invasive alternative to open-heart surgery
Announcing the achievement, Dr. Prashanth Marla, Director of A.J. Hospital & Research Centre, said the patient was referred to the Department of Cardiology after being diagnosed with the complex congenital heart defect, which has traditionally been treated through open-heart surgery.
Following a detailed evaluation, the cardiology team opted for an advanced transcatheter (pin-hole) procedure, eliminating the need for conventional surgery.
The intervention was performed through a small puncture in a blood vessel in the patient’s right leg. Using catheter-based technology, doctors successfully implanted a covered stent to correct the defect.
According to the hospital, the minimally invasive approach resulted in reduced pain, faster recovery, a shorter hospital stay, and avoided the risks associated with open-heart surgery.
Multidisciplinary team performs complex intervention
The procedure was led by Dr. Prem Alva, Chief Paediatric Interventional Cardiologist, and Dr. Praveen J. Shetty, Senior Interventional Cardiologist.
Anaesthesia and intraoperative ventilation were managed by Dr. Gururaj Tantry and Dr. Karthik, while Dr. Ashok provided continuous Trans-Oesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) imaging to ensure accurate placement of the covered stent.
The hospital said the successful outcome was made possible through the coordinated efforts of cardiologists, anaesthesiologists, imaging specialists, catheterisation laboratory personnel, nursing staff, and the supporting medical team.
Patient recovers well
The patient underwent a follow-up examination 45 days after the procedure and has made an excellent recovery.
According to the treating team, he has resumed his regular work and continues to remain in good health.
Milestone in cardiac care
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Prashanth Marla said the successful procedure reflects the hospital’s commitment to introducing advanced cardiac interventions in Coastal Karnataka.
He noted that the achievement offers new hope to patients with complex congenital heart diseases by making specialised minimally invasive treatment available closer to home.
The hospital said the milestone further strengthens A.J. Hospital & Research Centre’s position as a tertiary care centre providing advanced cardiac interventions and comprehensive heart care services in the region.