21-YEAR-OLD BOY UNDERGOES TRANSCATHETER PULMONARY VALVE REPLACEMENT AT FORTIS MULUND 

21-YEAR-OLD BOY UNDERGOES TRANSCATHETER PULMONARY VALVE REPLACEMENT AT FORTIS MULUND 

Mumbai, 29th June, 2024: Kalp Jain, a typically active 21-year-old, began experiencing shortness of breath, fatigue, and tiredness earlier this year. After consulting the doctors at Fortis Hospital Mulund, he was diagnosed with pulmonary valve leakage, a decreased heart rate, and an enlarged heart. To address this, he underwent a Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement (TPVR) under the supervision of Dr. Snehal Kulkarni, Director of Paediatric Cardiology at Fortis Hospital Mulund, and her team. This minimally invasive procedure was performed using a transcatheter technique without opening the chest.  

This was however not Kalp’s first tryst with heart surgery as he was born with a Tetralogy of Fallot - a congenital heart defect, which was treated through open heart surgery when he was just a year-old. He stayed in constant touch with his doctors and followed all care guidelines they suggested. He was able to lead a perfectly healthy and active life and even participated in various sports like cricket, football and skating. He completed his schooling and graduation from Mumbai, all the while undergoing consistent follow ups and heart monitoring procedures at regular intervals. He is currently employed by an MNC in BKC.   

Speaking about the case, Dr Snehal Kulkarni, Director-Paediatric Cardiology, Fortis Hospital Mulund said, “This is procedure was done without opening the chest through transcatheter technique, a hollow tube, called a catheter, is inserted and guided to reach the heart using imaging tools. It is very important for patients with congenital heart defects to undergo periodic follow ups and follow the expert guidelines though out their life. Some patients may be on medications which need to be monitored as they grow. In addition to taking care of heart problems, many other aspects need guidance – especially sports participation, career counselling, marriage and pregnancy (in girls). Later as per the condition of the heart, the next phase of surgery or necessary action can be suggested as and when required”.  

 Patient’s father Mr Nikhilkumar Jain said, “I am extremely grateful to Dr Snehal Kulkarni and hospital team who have given my son a new lease of life.  They guided us through every step and provided all the necessary support. Post surgery, my son once again will be able to lead a normal life and pursue his dream to the fullest.”  

 Commenting on this milestone achievement, Dr Vishal Beri, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital Mulund, said “Patients with Grown up Congenital Heart (GUCH) defects require access to specialised interventions throughout their life. Fortis supports patients and their families in transitioning from paediatric heart care to adult heart care, guided by expert cardiologists and their dedicated teams.” 

 The patient was successfully discharged on June 24, 2024. He will need to continue his medication for the next six months but will be able to resume his daily routine within a week and return to work.