Guwahati: In a groundbreaking medical achievement for the northeastern region, doctors in Guwahati successfully performed the first-ever “Double Switch Operation” on a four-year-old child.
The highly complex six-hour procedure, conducted at HealthCity Hospital last week, marks a significant milestone in pediatric cardiac care in the region.
The surgery was led by congenital heart surgeon Dr. Nayem Raja, with guidance from renowned surgeon Dr. K.S. Iyer.
They were supported by a multidisciplinary team of pediatric cardiologists, anesthesiologists, pediatric cardiac intensivists, perfusionists, nurses, and technicians.
Dr. Raja explained that the child was diagnosed with Congenitally Corrected Transposition of the Great Arteries (CCTGA), a rare condition where the heart’s chambers and great arteries are abnormally positioned.
The condition was further complicated by a ventricular septal defect (VSD) and an atretic pulmonary artery, which is the complete absence of the artery that supplies blood to the lungs.
“The child presented with symptoms such as bluish discoloration of the lips and tongue, along with easy fatigability,” Dr. Raja said.
“The Double Switch Operation, involving an atrial switch, closure of the VSD, and reconstruction of the pulmonary artery using an artificial valved conduit, was the only option to restore normal blood circulation and prevent heart failure.”
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The intricate procedure is considered one of the most demanding in congenital heart surgery.
Despite the challenges, the surgery was completed successfully, and the child is showing remarkable recovery under close observation.
Dr. Raja emphasised the significance of this achievement for the region.
“The success of this surgery offers new hope to children with complex congenital heart diseases in the Northeast, who previously had to travel to other parts of the country for advanced procedures,” he said.
