 Early Times Report
KATRA, Mar 3: Katra Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital has achieved a significant medical milestone by performing the region's first transcatheter Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) closure procedures on three pediatric patients from Kathua district. Led by Dr. Sushant Kumar, Senior Consultant - Cardiology, these groundbreaking interventions mark a pivotal advancement in local pediatric cardiac care.
The patients were identified through the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) and received treatment at no cost under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, ensuring equitable access to essential healthcare services. Reflecting on this achievement, Dr. M. M. Mathavan, Facility Director, stated, "As we enter our 10th year, reaching such milestones exemplifies our dedication to providing specialized pediatric cardiac care to the community."
Dr. Yashpal Sharma, Executive Director, emphasized the pivotal role of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board in enhancing regional healthcare services. He noted, "SMVD Shrine Board's unwavering support has been instrumental in establishing the hospital as a center of excellence, enabling us to offer critical procedures without financial burdens on patients."
Dr. Sushant Kumar provided clinical insights into the procedures, explaining that PDA is a congenital heart defect where the ductus arteriosus fails to close after birth, leading to abnormal blood flow between the aorta and the pulmonary artery. If left untreated, PDA can result in complications such as heart failure and delayed growth. The minimally invasive catheter-based closure technique involves inserting a catheter through a small incision, typically in the groin, and guiding it to the heart to place a closure device within the PDA, effectively sealing the abnormal opening.
This accomplishment not only highlights the hospital's commitment to advancing medical care but also establishes a new benchmark in pediatric cardiology within the region, offering hope and improved health outcomes for children with congenital heart conditions. |
