New Procedure introduced in RMI
(15/05/2004)

RMI is proud to announce that it has for the first time in the NWFP performed ASD Closure through a non surgical procedure, thus introducing an alternative to Open Heart Surgery. Atrial Septal Defect is a type of birth defect in which children are born with a ‘hole’ between two chambers of the heart. The result is increase blood flow to lungs, increase in blood pressure in lungs and ultimately heart failure and other serious complications. The disease is one of the most common birth defects affecting the heart.

Until recently the only method of treatment available for this disease was to close this hole by Open Heart Surgery. A new form of treatment has now been introduced in which the hole is closed with an umbrella like device known as “Amplatzer Device” through Cardiac Catheterization. The results of this procedure are comparable to those of surgery, while at the same time reducing the risk involved in open heart surgery. This procedure also requires a shorter stay in the hospital of only 1-2 days, compared to the 6 days’ stay in case of surgery.

The device and technical expertise is now available in Pakistan and has been introduced in other hospitals of the country. Cardiologist, Dr. (Col) Muhammad Azim performed this procedure upon Mr. Nasrullah, aged 40, in the RMI Catheterization Laboratory on 13th May 2004. The patient was safely discharged the next day. RMI plans to expand the scope of procedure to closures of some other types of holes in the heart with this technique in the future.

We wish Mr. Nasrullah a healthy life ahead!

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