The Newz Radar
MANDI: The Himachal Heart Institute in Mandi has achieved a significant milestone by successfully performing a non-surgical closure procedure for atrial septal defect (ASD), a congenital heart condition characterised by a hole in the heart’s upper chambers.
Neha, a 22-year-old resident of Janjehali in Mandi district, underwent this surgery, marking the institute’s first such procedure.
Dr Kunal Mahajan, director of cardiology at the hospital, led a team of doctors, including Dr Amit Singh, Dr Rahul Yadav, Dr Surendra Imran and Dr Prashant, during the procedure. Using a 36mm device, they closed the hole without the need for incisions or anaesthesia, allowing for a swift recovery.
The paramedical staff, including Abhishek Verma, Kriti Pathania, Kartik Soni and Pankaj Chandel, played crucial roles in the successful operation, the hospital said in a statement.
Dr Mahajan explained that ASD was a congenital defect and when the septum didn’t form correctly during fetal development, it could lead to a hole in the heart. Despite the condition persisting since Neha’s childhood, the medical team determined that surgery could be avoided.
This achievement makes the Himachal Heart Institute the first in this part of the region to perform an ASD closure without incisions or anaesthesia. Dr Mahajan emphasised that the advanced procedure, previously available only in Shimla and Chandigarh, was now accessible at the Mandi Heart Institute.
Dr Mahajan highlighted the financial assistance provided through Himcare and Ayushman cards, enabling Neha to receive free treatment that would otherwise have cost over Rs 2 lakh.
