A significant medical milestone has been achieved with the successful completion of the first-ever robotic mitral valve replacement (MVR) surgery in Eastern India. The surgery, performed at Narayana Hospital, RN Tagore Hospital, Mukundupur, was led by Dr. Lalit Kapoor, Senior Consultant – Cardiac Surgery (Adult & Paediatric).
The patient, Suman Devi (patient name changed), a 32-year-old lady, was diagnosed with rheumatic heart disease and severe mitral stenosis. This was causing her progressive shortness of breath and chest discomfort for the past year. She had undergone a balloon mitral valvotomy surgery in 2012 but now required further intervention due to the worsening condition of her heart.
Upon her visit to Narayana Hospital, her reports showed severe mitral restenosis (narrowing of the mitral valve of the heart). After a thorough review, a treatment plan was formed taking into account the patient’s desire for a good cosmetic result, rapid recovery and short hospital stay. A decision was made to perform a robotic mitral valve replacement surgery, which offers all these advantages .
The team was already well-versed in heart valve surgery and other robotic cardiac procedures, and Mrs Suman Devi’s Robotic Mitral Valve Replacement surgery was accomplished smoothly and without complications.
Dr. Lalit Kapoor, Senior Consultant – Cardiac Surgery (Adult & Paediatric), emphasized the importance of adopting advanced surgical techniques in improving patient outcomes. He said, “Robotic mitral valve replacement is a game-changer in cardiac surgery. It allows for a more precise procedure, quicker recovery times, and reduced complications, all while maintaining the highest standards of care.”
After the procedure, the patient was transferred to the cardiac intensive care unit (ITU) as per routine and given elective ventilatory support. She was successfully taken off supports on the first post-operative day, and helped to walk Her recovery was uncomplicated, and she was discharged after a four-day stay.
In a statement from the patient, she expressed her gratitude saying, “I was asked about the pain on the first post-operative day, and surprisingly, I had no pain at the incision site. I am amazed at how quickly I could get back on my feet.”
The procedure not only marks a significant achievement in the patient’s recovery but also sets a new benchmark for advanced robotic cardiac surgery in the region. Robotic mitral valve replacement offers several benefits, including minimal scarring, quicker recovery, and reduced hospital stay —critical factors for patients who wish to resume their normal lives as soon as possible.
Mr. R. Venkatesh, Group COO, Narayana Health, commented on the significance of the procedure, stating, “This surgery is a prime example of how innovative technologies are transforming healthcare. The successful use of robotic surgery for mitral valve replacement demonstrates the high level of care available to our patients and sets a new standard in cardiac care for the region.”
Mr. Abhijit CP, Director, Narayana Hospital RN Tagore Hospital & Corporate Growth Initiatives, Narayana Health (East), also emphasized the importance of the procedure, adding, “This achievement underscores our commitment to bringing the latest advancements in medical technology to our patients. The success of this surgery reflects our team’s dedication to providing the best possible outcomes through the adoption of cutting-edge techniques.”
The case represents a significant development in the medical treatment of mitral stenosis in the region, highlighting the potential for robotic surgery to provide more precise procedures and faster recovery times compared to traditional methods. The ability to perform such a complex procedure with advanced robotic assistance is poised to become a key part of the future of healthcare, offering hope and better treatment options for patients with heart conditions.
 surgery in Eastern India. The surgery, performed at Narayana Hospital, RN Tagore Hospital, Mukundupur, was led by Dr. Lalit Kapoor, Senior Consultant - Cardiac Surgery (Adult & Paediatric).){kind=link}