Celebrating Medical Doctors’ Day: Honoring the Pioneers in Cardiology

New Delhi, India, June 30: On this Medical Doctors’ Day, we celebrate the remarkable advancements in cardiology and pay tribute to the dedicated healthcare professionals who tirelessly work to improve heart health. Today, we highlight some outstanding doctors whose commitment to saving lives and enhancing heart health has transformed countless individuals’ lives.

Dr. Pavan Kumar, MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Cardio Thoracic and Vascular Surgery) – Senior Consultant Cardiac Surgeon at Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai

Heart health is critical for overall well-being, yet cardiovascular issues continue to rise. Despite advancements in medical technology, numerous misconceptions about heart surgery still persist, hindering awareness and perpetuating myths.

One common misconception is that immediate diagnosis and timely surgery are not essential, which is far from the truth. In fact, timely medical intervention can prevent irreversible damage caused by heart disease. Another myth is that the heart is entirely removed during surgery, but this is only the case in heart transplants. Modern cardiac procedures, performed under anesthesia, significantly reduce discomfort, and recent advancements have made surgeries like valve replacement and bypass operations safer with minimal risks.

Despite the challenges of heart surgeries, relying on myths or hearsay can jeopardize your heart health. Trusting your doctor’s advice, rather than common misconceptions, is key to successful treatment and recovery.

Dr. G V P Rao, MBBS, DNB (Med), FICC (Card), PhD (Card), DSc (Card), MCSI, MACC, PhD (Heart Failure) – Senior Consultant Cardiologist & Philanthropist, Founder & CEO of Hridhayam Heart Clinic & Medi Heart Care Foundation, Nashik

Technological breakthroughs in cardiology have expanded the treatment possibilities for patients with complex cardiac and coronary conditions. Innovations such as bioabsorbable vascular scaffolds and advanced imaging technologies have revolutionized the management of coronary and valvular diseases. Procedures like transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and MitraClip implantation have drastically improved outcomes in structural heart disease management.

With over two decades of experience, Dr. Rao has made significant contributions to rural India, helping prevent heart attacks through awareness campaigns focused on heart failure and rehabilitation. He has successfully completed over 20,000 interventional procedures and continues to be recognized for his philanthropic efforts in cardiac health.

Dr. Virbhan Balai, MBBS, DLO, MD (Gen. Med), DNB (Cardiology), FNB (Interventional Cardiology) – Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Manipal Hospital Dwarka, New Delhi

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death globally, contributing to 17.9 million deaths annually. On this Doctors’ Day, Dr. Balai urges everyone to prioritize their health by adopting simple lifestyle changes like reducing cholesterol, managing blood pressure, quitting smoking, and engaging in daily physical activities.

Recent advancements in cardiovascular treatments, including non-surgical techniques like TAVR and MitraClip, offer effective alternatives to traditional surgeries, improving outcomes for patients suffering from severe heart conditions.

Dr. S. S. Murthy, MBBS, DNB, MNAMS – Director & HOD at Ayushman Hospital, New Delhi

With advancements in stent technology, the development of bioabsorbable stents and drug-eluting balloons has made procedures safer and more effective. Imaging tools such as intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and spectroscopy now help cardiologists better assess arterial blockages and perform precise stent placements, reducing complications.

These advancements, coupled with new tools like calcium-cutting devices, have made angioplasty safer, even in previously challenging cases.

Dr. Annie Arvind, MD (Paediatrics), DNB (Paediatric Cardiology) – Associate Consultant Pediatric Cardiologist at Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon

On this Doctors’ Day, Dr. Arvind highlights the importance of early screening, diagnosis, and timely interventions for congenital heart disease (CHD) in children. Advances in pediatric cardiology and surgery have made it possible to treat or manage most CHDs, significantly improving survival rates. Dr. Arvind encourages parents to seek medical advice if their child exhibits signs of CHD, such as difficulty breathing or poor weight gain, especially in the neonatal period.

Fetal echocardiography has also emerged as a groundbreaking tool, enabling the detection of CHD before birth, allowing for life-saving interventions.

Dr. Kalpesh S. Malik, MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (CVTS) – Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeon, Mumbai

Cardiac surgery is often mistakenly perceived as a dangerous last resort. However, thanks to advances in anesthesia and surgical techniques, cardiac procedures are now much safer, with minimal risk and quicker recovery times. Dr. Malik emphasizes the importance of trusting medical advice rather than relying on common myths about cardiac surgery.

With over 26 years of experience, Dr. Malik has performed more than 13,500 cardiac surgeries, including complex surgeries for congenital heart defects in children and neonates.

Dr. Sanjeev Gera, MBBS, MD, DNB – Director of Cardiac Sciences at Fortis Hospital, Noida

India accounts for about 60% of the global heart disease burden. Early detection is crucial in preventing heart attacks, and Dr. Gera emphasizes the importance of regular screening for those at risk. Advanced diagnostic methods such as CT calcium scoring and advanced angiography techniques help identify early heart disease, leading to better patient outcomes.

Dr. Amjad Shaikh, Consultant Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeon at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Navi Mumbai

Beating heart coronary artery bypass surgery is a game-changing technique that eliminates the need for a heart-lung machine, making the procedure safer and more efficient. This method, along with the use of both internal mammary arteries for grafting, offers long-term benefits and significantly reduces the risk of complications, providing patients with a better quality of life post-surgery.

Dr. Lal Daga, MBBS, DNB (Med.), DNB (Card) – Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Apollo Hospital, Ahmedabad

The rise of advanced diagnostic techniques and therapies, such as 2D and 3D mapping electrophysiology studies, has improved outcomes for patients with arrhythmias. Percutaneous valve treatments, pacemakers, and ICDs are now essential components in the management of heart conditions, helping to improve both survival rates and quality of life.

Dr. Mohit M Bhagwati, DNB Cardiology – Interventional Cardiologist at Holy Family Hospital, New Delhi

The introduction of drug-eluting balloons (DEB) has revolutionized the treatment of coronary artery disease. These balloons combine the benefits of angioplasty and drug delivery, offering a non-stent alternative that prevents restenosis and improves long-term outcomes for patients. Dr. Bhagwati praises this breakthrough as a major development in modern cardiology, ensuring better patient care and results.

Conclusion

Cardiologists are at the forefront of groundbreaking developments in the field of cardiology, leveraging state-of-the-art technologies to enhance patient outcomes. From non-invasive imaging tools to revolutionary interventions and precision medicine, these healthcare professionals are committed to providing the highest level of care to their patients.