Medica Superspecialty Hospital Celebrates Success in TAVR Procedures

Medica Superspecialty Hospital, part of the Manipal Hospitals group, celebrated its achievements in transforming lives through Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR). The hospital, recognised for performing the highest number of TAVR procedures in Eastern India, hosted an event to honour patients who underwent this life-changing treatment.

TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure that replaces the aortic valve using cardiac catheters, eliminating the need for open-heart surgery. Unlike traditional valve replacement, which requires general anaesthesia and prolonged recovery, TAVR is conducted in a cath lab with minimal anaesthesia, enabling faster recovery. Globally, over 120,000 TAVR procedures have been performed across 50 countries, with India accounting for approximately 5,000 since 2016.

During the event, (Prof.) Dr Rabin Chakraborty, Senior Vice Chairman & Head of Cardiology at Medica, highlighted the team’s expertise in handling complex cases. “TAVR is a sophisticated procedure, but with our experienced heart team, we achieve excellent outcomes. This catheter-based technique will soon become the preferred option for heart valve disease, particularly for patients with comorbidities or those over 65 who are not suited for traditional open-heart surgery.”

Dr Dilip Kumar, Director of the Cardiac Cath Lab at Medica, detailed the advantages of TAVR. “Traditional heart valve surgery involves opening the chest and prolonged anaesthesia. With TAVR, we access the valve through catheters, ensuring shorter recovery times, reduced infection risk, and cost efficiency. Since its introduction in India in 2016, TAVR has gained significant traction, and Medica has been at the forefront of this transformation in Eastern India.”

The event also featured inspiring stories from patients who benefitted from TAVR. A 72-year-old woman from Rajarhat shared her journey: “After fainting twice due to a narrowed aortic valve, Dr Dilip Kumar recommended TAVR. The procedure on 22 October 2024 was seamless, and I was discharged just two days later. Thanks to the exceptional care at Medica, I quickly returned to my normal routine.”

Similarly, a 77-year-old man from Dumdum recounted his experience. “After battling chest discomfort and breathing issues, I was diagnosed with blockages and complications from a previous heart surgery. Dr Kumar recommended TAVR, which was performed on 29 June 2024. My recovery has been remarkable, and I’m now leading a stable, healthy life.”

Dr Soumya Patra, Consultant and In-Charge of Cardiology at Manipal Hospitals Mukundapur, praised the global acceptance of TAVR technology. “This minimally invasive procedure has a high success rate, particularly for elderly patients at higher surgical risk. Medica’s achievement in performing the highest number of TAVR procedures in the region is a testament to our commitment to excellence.”

Ayanabh Debgupta, Regional COO, Manipal Hospitals (East), emphasised the hospital’s mission to bring cutting-edge healthcare to Eastern India. “Our focus is on ensuring patients receive world-class treatment locally. The success of our TAVR programme exemplifies our dedication to improving patients’ health and quality of life.”