Rare Heart Surgery Specialist

Multiple Aneurysms of Sinus of Valsalva (ASOV) and the groundbreaking surgical expertise in India:

Surgical Excellence Achievement: Dr. Pavan Kumar, Head of the Cardiovascular Department at Lilavati Hospital in Bandra, Mumbai, has made history by becoming the first surgeon in India and the seventh surgeon worldwide to successfully perform surgery for Multiple Aneurysms of Sinus of Valsalva (ASOV). This achievement marks a significant advancement in cardiac surgery capabilities in India.

Understanding ASOV in Simple Terms: Think of your heart as a house with special doorways (the aortic valve) that control blood flow. Just above these doorways are three small bulging areas called the sinuses of Valsalva - they're like small alcoves that help your heart valve work properly. When more than one of these areas develops weak spots that balloon out (like bubbles on a tire's inner tube), it's called Multiple ASOV.

Why It's Dangerous:

• These bulges can suddenly burst, causing internal bleeding
• They can press against other parts of the heart
• They can affect how well your heart valve works

Diagnosis Process:

1. Initial Detection:
   • Often found during routine check-ups
   • Doctors might hear unusual heart sounds (murmurs)
   • Patients may experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual tiredness
2. Confirmation Tests:
   • Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound)
   • CT scan or MRI for detailed 3D pictures
   • Cardiac catheterization with special dye

The Groundbreaking Surgery: Under Dr. Pavan Kumar's expertise at Lilavati Hospital, the complex procedure involves:

• Precise repair of multiple weak spots
• Using special medical-grade materials for patches
• Possible reconstruction of the aortic valve
• Reinforcement of the aorta wall

Recovery Journey:

1. Hospital Stay:
   • 5-7 days total hospitalization
   • Initial days in intensive care
   • Close monitoring by a specialized team
2. Post-Surgery Care:
   • 6-8 weeks for full recovery
   • Regular follow-up visits
   • Gradual return to normal activities
   • Specific medication regimen

Long-term Care:

1. Regular Check-ups:
   • Scheduled follow-up appointments
   • Monitoring of heart function
   • Blood pressure management
2. Lifestyle Modifications:
   • Heart-healthy diet
   • Prescribed exercise routine
   • Stress management
   • No smoking

Warning Signs to Watch For:

• Sudden chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Unusual fatigue
• Racing heartbeat These symptoms require immediate medical attention.

The Significance of Dr. Pavan Kumar's Achievement:

• Brings world-class cardiac surgical expertise to India
• Provides hope for patients with complex cardiac conditions
• Establishes Lilavati Hospital as a centre of excellence for complex cardiac surgeries
• Places Indian cardiac surgery on the global map

This advancement means that Indian patients with this rare but serious condition now have access to world-class treatment within the country, under the care of Dr. Pavan Kumar at Lilavati Hospital.