In a remarkable medical achievement, an 18-year-old boy presented at the cardiology outpatient department (OPD) of AIIMS hopal with complaints of tiredness and shortness of breath. He had sought a second opinion after being advised of a mitral valve replacement due to leakage in the left side of the heart.
Dr. Bhushan Shah, a senior cardiologist at AIIMS Bhopal, conducted a thorough examination of the patient, including an echocardiogram (ECHO), which revealed no signs of typical conditions like rheumatic heart disease, infective endocarditis (valve infection), connective tissue disorders, or congenital abnormalities. To gain further clarity, a 3D Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) was performed, mapping the valve structure. It was discovered that the leak was from the periphery of the left mitral valve, a rare condition typically treated by surgery.
However, given the patient's young age, Dr. Bhushan Shah decided to take a less invasive approach. Instead of opting for traditional open-heart surgery, which would have required lifelong medication, Dr. Shah chose to close the leakage without surgery using a nitinol device.
This minimally invasive procedure was performed by Dr. Bhushan Shah and Dr. Ashish Jain, with anesthesia support provided by Dr. Haresh Kumar and his team, using 3D TEE guidance to successfully close the mitral valve perforation via a transcatheter approach.
Prof. (Dr.) Ajai Singh, Executive Director of AIIMS Bhopal, praised the team for their innovative approach:
"This procedure is a testament to the expertise and dedication of our cardiac team. It is the second time such a procedure has been performed in India, showcasing AIIMS Bhopal's commitment to providing cutting-edge treatments for complex conditions. By avoiding open-heart surgery, we have significantly improved the quality of life for this young patient."
The patient was discharged the very next day and is now recovering well. This successful intervention once again highlights AIIMS Bhopal's capabilities in offering advanced medical solutions while minimizing risks for patients.
