The Peshawar Institute of Cardiology (PIC) has achieved a historic milestone with a pioneering procedure designed to protect heart patients from strokes.
Led by Dr. Mohammad Waleed, a distinguished interventional cardiologist specializing in structural heart diseases and an assistant professor at PIC, this groundbreaking procedure is the first of its kind in Pakistan. It holds the promise of providing a vital lifeline to patients vulnerable to strokes due to irregular heart rhythms.
This collaborative effort brought together Dr. Waleed and renowned heart specialist Professor David Hildick-Smith from Sussex Cardiac Centre in Brighton, England. Together, they successfully implanted a cutting-edge device in a 71-year-old female cardiac patient at PIC.
Professor Hildick-Smith expressed his astonishment and honor at witnessing this groundbreaking initiative taking place within a Pakistani public hospital. He noted that this technological advancement has the potential to save countless lives, heralding a new era for Pakistan’s healthcare system.
Dr. Mohammad Waleed explained that individuals with irregular heart rhythms constantly face the threat of blood clot formation in the left atrial appendage (LAA), which can lead to strokes. Conventional blood-thinning medications carry the risk of bleeding in sensitive areas. The LAA closure device offers hope by reducing the risk of stroke without the need for systemic blood thinners.
Prof. Shahkar Ahmad Shah, the CEO and medical director of PIC, commended the dedication of his team and administrative staff. He stressed PIC’s commitment to incorporating international technology and treatments for the betterment of patients throughout Pakistan.
Prof. Shahkar emphasized that this achievement represents a significant leap forward in the field of cardiology and underscores PIC’s unwavering dedication to enhancing the lives of cardiac patients in the country. The introduction of the LAA closure device establishes a new precedent in Pakistan’s healthcare landscape, providing hope to countless individuals grappling with heart conditions.
