Cardiologists at Guru Nanak Dev Hospital (GNDH) in Amritsar have successfully treated a six-month-old infant with a complex congenital heart defect using an innovative minimally invasive procedure. The infant, weighing only 4.5 kg, was suffering from Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA), a condition where a blood vessel connecting the aorta and pulmonary artery fails to close after birth, leading to excessive blood flow to the lungs and causing recurrent respiratory infections, breathing difficulties, and poor weight gain.
Challenging Case of Low-Weight Infant
The child was referred to GNDH after experiencing recurrent chest infections and failure to thrive. Senior cardiologist Dr Parminder Singh Manghera noted that PDA closure in infants weighing less than 5 kg is technically challenging due to the small size of their blood vessels and limited availability of approved closure devices. Standard PDA closure devices are generally not suitable for such low-weight infants.
Innovative Use of Vascular Plug
To overcome this challenge, the team adopted an innovative approach using a Lifetech Vascular Plug, a device not routinely used for PDA closure. Technical modifications were made to adapt the capsule-shaped plug into a configuration that could safely seal the defect. Dr Manghera stated, “The procedure was completed successfully without any complications and achieved complete closure of the PDA.” He added, “There is currently no dedicated PDA closure device approved for babies weighing less than 5 kg. Without timely intervention, the child’s condition could have deteriorated further.”
Procedure Provided Free Under Health Scheme
The entire treatment was provided free of cost under the Chief Minister’s health scheme. Dr Manghera highlighted that the procedure would have cost between Rs 5 lakh and Rs 7 lakh at a private healthcare facility. The procedure was carried out with the support of Dr Veena Chatrath, Dr Milind, and the anaesthesia team.
Recognition and Future Implications
Government Medical College Director-Principal Dr Rajiv Devgan and Medical Superintendent Dr Karamjeet Singh congratulated the team, stating that the achievement reflects the growing capabilities of government healthcare institutions in delivering advanced medical care. Dr Devgan noted that the successful use of the modified vascular plug could offer a safe and effective alternative for low-weight infants with congenital heart defects.
