SPARSH Hospital Pioneers Karnataka’s First Artificial Heart Transplants with Cutting-Edge LVAD Technology

Historic Milestone in Cardiac Care Brings New Hope for Heart Failure Patients

Bangalore, April 2025 – In a groundbreaking achievement, SPARSH Hospital, RR Nagar, has successfully performed Karnataka’s first and second Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) implantations using the advanced HeartMate 3—a third-generation artificial heart pump employing Full MagLev™ Flow Technology. The surgeries, conducted on a 69-year-old local patient and another from Bagalkot, mark a significant leap in cardiac care, positioning SPARSH as a Centre of Excellence for Heart Failure and Transplant Surgery in the state.

The first procedure was performed in February 2025, followed by the second in March 2025, with both patients recovering successfully. The Bangalore-based patient was discharged in April, while the Bagalkot patient now leads an active and healthy life post-surgery.

Revolutionary Technology for End-Stage Heart Failure

The HeartMate 3 LVAD is not a full heart replacement but a mechanical pump that supports the left ventricle, drastically improving heart function in patients with end-stage heart failure. Unlike traditional devices, it uses magnetic levitation (MagLev) technology, reducing wear and tear while enhancing durability and patient outcomes.

Dr. Ashwin, CTVS & Transplant Surgeon at SPARSH Hospital, RR Nagar, who led the surgeries, stated:
“Performing Karnataka’s first artificial heart transplants is not just a medical milestone—it’s a beacon of hope for patients with advanced heart failure. The HeartMate 3 LVAD’s revolutionary MagLev™ technology ensures better survival rates and quality of life.”

Dr. Vikranth Veerana, Senior Consultant, Cardiology, added:
“These devices bridge the gap for patients awaiting heart transplants and, in many cases, serve as long-term solutions, offering them a renewed lease on life.”

A Lifeline for Karnataka’s Cardiac Patients

With limited LVAD procedures performed across India—including a recent claim by Army Hospital (R&R), Delhi, as the first in a government institution—SPARSH’s achievement reinforces its leadership in complex cardiac care.

Col. Rahul Tewari, Cluster COO of SPARSH Hospital, RR Nagar, emphasized:
“This success places SPARSH among the few hospitals in India capable of such advanced procedures. It reflects our commitment to delivering precision-driven, compassionate care while eliminating the need for patients to seek treatment outside Karnataka.”

Patient Success Stories: A New Lease on Life

One of the beneficiaries,  Kalyan Setty, a Bangalore resident, shared his emotional journey:
“In a traumatic condition, I was running out of time and hope. SPARSH gave me both back. Today, I walk with a new heart and a new life. We are deeply grateful to Dr. Ashwin and his team for their life-saving expertise and care.”

The Growing Need for Advanced Heart Failure Solutions

End-stage heart failure severely impacts patients, causing fatigue, breathlessness, and fluid retention, drastically reducing quality of life. LVADs like HeartMate 3 offer a second chance, enabling patients to regain mobility and longevity—whether as a bridge-to-transplant or a permanent solution for those ineligible for donor hearts.

A New Era in Cardiac Innovation

With these landmark surgeries, SPARSH Hospital cements its reputation as a pioneer in cardiac innovation, providing Karnataka’s heart failure patients access to world-class, life-saving interventions closer to home.

Also present at the press briefing:

• Dr. Madhusudan, Consultant – CTVS & Vascular Surgery

• Dr. Shiva Prakash

• Dr. Sunil Christopher

  

Statements:

1. Official Statement from SPARSH Hospital:
   *”SPARSH Hospital has made history by successfully performing Karnataka’s first and second artificial heart transplants using the revolutionary HeartMate 3 LVAD. This milestone reaffirms our commitment to bringing world-class cardiac care to Karnataka, eliminating the need for patients to seek treatment outside the state.”*

2. Statement from Dr. Ashwin, CTVS & Transplant Surgeon:
   *”The HeartMate 3 LVAD is a game-changer for end-stage heart failure patients. Its MagLev™ technology ensures minimal complications and longer survival, offering new hope where traditional treatments fall short.”*

3. Statement from Patient Mr. Kalyan Setty:
   “I was given a second chance at life. Thanks to the skilled team at SPARSH, I now live with renewed energy and gratitude.”

Key Quotes:

• Dr. Vikranth Veerana, Sr. Consultant, Cardiology:
  “LVADs like HeartMate 3 are not just temporary fixes—they can be permanent solutions, transforming lives of patients with severe heart failure.”

• Col. Rahul Tewari, Cluster COO, SPARSH Hospital:
  “This achievement places SPARSH among India’s elite hospitals capable of performing such high-risk, life-saving procedures with precision and compassion.”

Q&A:

Q: What makes the HeartMate 3 LVAD different from earlier devices?
*A: Unlike older mechanical pumps, HeartMate 3 uses magnetic levitation (MagLev) technology, reducing friction, wear, and risk of complications. It’s more durable and improves long-term survival rates.*

Q: Who is eligible for an LVAD implant?
A: Patients with end-stage heart failure, either as a bridge-to-transplant (while waiting for a donor heart) or as a permanent solution if they’re not transplant candidates.

Q: Why is this milestone significant for Karnataka?
A: Previously, patients had to travel to other states for such advanced care. Now, SPARSH provides world-class cardiac treatment locally, reducing delays and improving accessibility.

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