Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 12 August 2023
The Andaman Nicobar Islands Institute of Medical Sciences (ANIIMS) has etched a remarkable achievement in the annals of medical history by successfully conducting two groundbreaking cardiac procedures, Conduction System Pacing (Left Bundle Pacing) and Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT-D), in a single day. This momentous feat, marking a significant advancement in the medical landscape of the A&N Islands, showcased the institution’s prowess in cutting-edge medical interventions.
Conduction system pacing, an innovative physiological pacing method, was introduced globally in 2018 in China, and its successful execution on July 17, 2023, at ANIIMS exemplified the institution’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of medical excellence. While only a select number of medical centres across the nation have possessed the expertise to administer such sophisticated pacing techniques, ANIIMS has firmly positioned itself among this esteemed group.
The historic day witnessed two patients benefiting from these groundbreaking procedures. The first patient, a 66-year-old male, presented with recurring syncopal episodes and intermittent complete heart block, compounded by left ventricular dysfunction. Swift and precise action by a collaborative team of Cardiologists, Electrophysiology (EP) technicians, Cath lab technicians, and Cath lab nursing staff enabled the successful implementation of left bundle pacing. The patient experienced complete alleviation of symptoms, setting a remarkable precedent for this innovative procedure.
In a parallel procedure that highlights the institution’s multifaceted expertise, a 51-year-old female with severe left ventricular dysfunction and dilated cardiomyopathy received a Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy with Defibrillator (CRT-D) implantation. Suffering from recurrent heart failure and complete Left Bundle Branch Block (LBBB), the patient’s condition improved significantly post-procedure. The intricate and lengthy surgeries, spanning over seven hours, showcased the institution’s dedication to precision and patient well-being.
Both patients have since been discharged and continue to thrive under close follow-up care, demonstrating excellent pacing parameters and marked improvements in their respective conditions. This groundbreaking achievement not only underscores ANIIMS’ commitment to pioneering medical advancements but also underscores the dedication and collaboration of the medical teams involved.
The success of these innovative procedures at ANIIMS signals a significant stride forward in the medical capabilities available in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, underscoring the institution’s ongoing commitment to delivering world-class healthcare to the local community.