First cardiac stenting procedure conducted at Lautoka Hospital as cardiac surgery milestone reached
Aspen Medical has achieved another significant milestone with the successful completion of the first-ever cardiac stenting procedure at the Lautoka Hospital Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory (Cath Lab) this week.
A Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) Stenting is a minimally invasive procedure to open blocked arteries in the heart. The procedure marks another major step forward in the delivery of advanced cardiac care for patients in the Western Division.
46-year-old Vimelsh Kumar from Votualevu, Nadi, became the first patient to undergo the procedure. Mr Kumar, who had been suffering from severe chest pain and experienced a heart attack in August, expressed his gratitude following the procedure.
“I’m thankful to the doctors involved in the procedure. This procedure has given me another new lease of life,” he said.
The procedure was successfully led by Aspen Medical Specialist Physician/Cardiologist Dr Bharatvansh Bali, in collaboration with the MIOT team.
Dr Bali shared that the patient had a 99 percent blockage in the right coronary artery, which required immediate attention.
Dr Bali said a PCI is a minimally invasive procedure, providing a faster and safer recovery experience for patients.
“It’s just a small puncture in the wrist through which all the equipment such as catheters, angioplasty wires, and balloons is inserted. After the stenting procedure, the equipment is removed and the patient can start walking around within few hours They can even be discharged later the same day or the next morning after observation,” he said.
Dr Bali described the successful completion of the first PCI as a historic occasion for Lautoka Hospital, one that signifies the hospital’s growing capacity and commitment to improving access to specialist medical care in Fiji.
“We’re already doing coronary angiograms on a regular basis. This first stenting procedure marks the beginning and as the service grows, more patients will be able to receive timely treatment right here at home.”
The advent of cardiac stenting comes as Lautoka Hospital celebrates conducting more than 300 life-saving cardiac surgeries since the free service was introduced at the hospital since 2022.
Dr Bali urged the public to pay attention to warning signs and seek medical advice early.
“If you have any symptoms that could be related to your heart, don’t delay. Get checked by your doctor. Early detection and timely surgery can save your life,” he said.
The cardiothoracic team at Lautoka Hospital runs full-day clinics every Monday and half-day clinics every Friday, with surgeries conducted throughout the week. All consultations, surgeries, and post-operative care are provided free of charge to Fijian citizens. After surgery, patients receive rehabilitation support, medication, counselling and dietary guidance to help them recover and return to their daily lives.
Acknowledging the collaborative effort, Dr Bali extended his gratitude to the MIOT team for their ongoing support and partnership.
“This is truly a team effort. I’m thankful to the MIOT team for their partnership as we work together to provide world-class cardiac services to our people,” said Dr Bali.
ENDS