A patient’s perspective: Undergoing a first-rate cardio-thoracic procedure at Aga Khan University Hospital

Promptly consulting his cardiologist, he was diagnosed with extensive heart disease through an angiogram, which revealed a complete occlusion of the right coronary artery along with other blockages.

“The cardiologist stated that either PCI (stenting) or CABG (Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting) were options, but he suggested a meeting with the head of the in-house AKUH Cardio-Thoracic department. He recommended a full procedure that would entail a sternotomy, involving the sawing of the sternum and parting of the ribs to allow full access to the heart. As it turned out, a quadruple bypass was required,” he explained.

Exploring alternatives, the patient inquired about the possibility of a less invasive mini bypass using robotic tools. However, Mr. Duncan recommended against this, citing the need for optimal access to the heart. Trusting the expertise of the AKUH team, the patient agreed to proceed with the invasive procedure.

“The surgery was scheduled for two and a half weeks later, during which I was placed on medication to lower my heart rate and blood pressure. I was admitted to the Cardio-Thoracic Intensive Care Unit (CT/ICU) at AKUH. The doctors explained the procedure in detail, which reassured me by addressing all of my concerns,” he said.

The surgery took place the following morning and lasted five hours. Post-surgery, the patient regained consciousness in the late evening, breathing on his own after the removal of the breathing tube.

“The doctors and the team at the facility were very attentive to my recovery journey. Every day after that, I was visited twice a day by Mr. Duncan and at least once a day by Professor Lance and other outstanding members of the cardio-thoracic surgical team. They discussed various parts of the procedure and recovery with me. This was very comforting, as I had access to as much information as I required,” he recalled.

The patient's recovery progressed smoothly. He was able to sit in a chair for 12 hours the day after the surgery and began walking shortly thereafter. By the time of discharge on April 28, he was walking approximately one kilometre per day. Despite some initial discomfort from pain, fluid retention, and gas buildup, these issues were managed effectively.

The patient praised the care he received, highlighting the dedication and expertise of the nurses and doctors at AKUH. The attentive and knowledgeable staff ensured a smooth recovery process, and the patient was discharged a day earlier than expected due to his rapid progress.

“Now in the seventh-week post-surgery, I am able to walk an average of eight kilometres a day with minimal discomfort. Although activities like driving and golfing are deferred until the end of nine weeks to allow full healing, I feel confident in my recovery,” he said.

Choosing to undergo the procedure at AKUH proved to be a cost-effective and convenient decision, avoiding the high personal expenses and logistical challenges of seeking treatment abroad. The patient expressed his gratitude for the first-class surgical team, state-of-the-art facilities, and outstanding care provided by AKUH, affirming it as the best decision he could have made for his health.