The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)-Guwahati has officially commenced its dedicated Cardiac Surgery Programme by achieving a major medical milestone. The premier medical institution successfully performed two complex open-heart surgeries on patients from Assam on the very same day, showcasing its expanding healthcare capabilities in the region.
Successful Treatment for a Child and a Woman
According to an official statement released by the institute, the successful procedures were conducted on a seven-year-old child and a 47-year-old woman. Both patients were suffering from congenital heart defects, which involved a structural hole in the heart. The expert medical team meticulously managed the procedures to ensure positive health outcomes for both individuals.
Leadership and Team Coordination
The crucial medical procedures were carried out on September 8 under the direct leadership of Professor Colonel Dr Ashok Puranik, Executive Director of AIIMS. Professor Puranik actively supported the entire cardiac surgical team and remained closely involved throughout the operations, which significantly boosted the confidence and morale of the medical staff.
Multidisciplinary Approach by Departments
The surgeries were executed by the Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, led by Prof Vineet Mahajan. This was achieved in close coordination with the departments of Anaesthesia and Cardiology, alongside skilled cardiac perfusionists, dedicated nurses, paramedical personnel, and technical staff working together seamlessly.
Advanced Equipment and CSR Support
The operations were performed utilizing a state-of-the-art heart-lung machine, which was generously donated to AIIMS Guwahati through the Corporate Social Responsibility initiative of the ICICI Foundation. Both patients received treatment under the special AIIMS initiative supporting the establishment of the Cardiac Surgery Programme. The machine, also known as a cardiopulmonary bypass machine, temporarily takes over the biological functions of the heart and lungs during open-heart surgery.
Expanding Healthcare Access in the Northeast
AIIMS Guwahati stated that these procedures mark the strong beginning of its cardiac surgery programme, demonstrating its robust capability to deliver advanced multidisciplinary cardiac care locally. The initiative is expected to greatly expand access to specialized cardiac treatment for patients across Assam, the Northeast, and adjoining states, ultimately reducing the heavy burden of traveling to distant medical centres.
