Children's Heart Defects Treated Without Open Surgery in Rajkot
Dr. Nikhila Pachani, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, along with her dedicated team at Backbone Medicity Hospital, Rajkot, has successfully managed a range of congenital heart disease (CHD) cases in children. The procedures included closure of Atrial Septal Defect (ASD), Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA), and a more complex fenestrated ASD — all done using minimally invasive device-based techniques.
What Are These Conditions?
- ASD (Atrial Septal Defect): A hole between the two upper chambers of the heart that is present from birth. If left untreated, it can put extra strain on the heart and lungs over time.
- PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus): A blood vessel that should close naturally after birth but sometimes stays open, causing abnormal blood flow between the heart's major arteries.
- Fenestrated ASD: A special type of atrial septal defect that has multiple small openings, making it more complex to close.
How Is Device Closure Done?
Instead of open-heart surgery, these defects are closed using a small, specially designed device — such as the Cocoon device — that is guided through a thin tube (catheter) inserted into a blood vessel, usually through the groin. The device is then positioned carefully across the hole to seal it. The child does not need a large chest incision, which means:
- Faster recovery after the procedure
- Shorter hospital stay
- Less pain and risk compared to open surgery
- Excellent long-term outcomes
Fluoroscopy (live X-ray) images from the cath lab, visible in the post, show the device precisely placed in the heart — a clear example of the skill and precision involved in these procedures.
Advancing Pediatric Heart Care in Gujarat
Congenital heart diseases are among the most common birth defects in India. Early detection and timely intervention can give children a healthy, normal life. The team at Backbone Medicity continues to bring advanced, internationally aligned care closer to families in Rajkot and the wider Saurashtra region.
If your child has been diagnosed with a heart defect, or if you are concerned about symptoms such as breathlessness, poor weight gain, or bluish lips, please consult a qualified pediatric cardiologist or interventional cardiologist at the earliest.