Japanese Cardiologist Demonstrates Life-Saving CTO Treatment At IGIMS Workshop
Patna: Patients suffering from a complex and potentially life-threatening heart condition known as chronic total occlusion (CTO) can now access advanced treatment at a fraction of the usual cost at IGIMS, Patna. The Institute of Cardiology organised a dedicated workshop on Monday to showcase the latest techniques and technology now available for treating this condition.
The day-long CTO workshop brought together cardiologists, medical staff, and students to witness cutting-edge interventions aimed at improving patient outcomes. According to Dr Manish Mandal, medical superintendent at IGIMS, the institute offers CTO treatment at nearly one-third of the cost charged by hospitals outside the state, making it the most affordable option in Bihar. “We have installed state-of-the-art machines that allow us to perform these complex procedures safely and effectively,” he said.
CTO is a severe form of coronary artery disease in which a heart artery remains completely blocked for three months or more, raising the risk of chest pain, breathlessness and sudden heart attack. Historically, patients required open-heart bypass surgery to address this condition. However, newer techniques using minimally invasive procedures can now clear blockages without the need for major surgery.
Dr Ravi Vishnu Prasad, head of the cardiology department at IGIMS, explained the significance of this advancement. “Opening a CTO is a complex process requiring highly specialised skill and technology,” he said. “With the machines now available at our institute, and at a significantly lower cost, we are providing access to advanced heart care that was previously out of reach for many.”
As part of the workshop, renowned Japanese cardiologist Dr Raiju Hayasi conducted a live demonstration of CTO intervention using advanced catheter-based techniques. Visiting Bihar for the first time, Dr Hayasi guided local doctors through the intricate procedure of opening a completely blocked artery without an incision, enabling patients to be discharged within two days.
“This used to be a condition primarily treated with bypass surgery,” said Dr Prasad. “Now, with this minimally invasive method, patients experience faster recovery and fewer complications.”
The workshop also highlighted the department’s rapid growth. Dr B.P. Singh, former head of cardiology, remarked, “The sapling we planted years ago has grown into a flourishing garden. Under Dr Prasad’s leadership, the department is scaling new heights.”
Director of IGIMS Dr Binde Kumar reiterated the institute’s commitment to affordable, high-quality care. “We will continue to provide our full support to expand access to advanced treatments,” he said.
Faculty members, including Dr Om Kumar and Dr Alok Bharti, emphasised the importance of ongoing workshops to train the next generation of cardiologists in these life-saving techniques.
The workshop, conducted by Dr Praveen Kumar of the cardiology department, drew participation from hundreds of doctors and students, alongside members of the cardiac surgical team and nursing staff.
