Doha: In recognition of World Heart Day,
Sidra Medicine is highlighting a recent milestone in complex congenital heart
surgery following the successful treatment of three-year-old Dana, who was born
with an exceptionally complex heart condition.
Dana was referred to Sidra Medicine with a
congenital heart condition that required the cardiac team to consider two
surgical approaches: a univentricular repair or a biventricular repair. While
the univentricular approach would have been technically less demanding, the
multidisciplinary team determined that a biventricular repair could offer Dana
a better long-term outcome and quality of life. The procedure, however, was
considerably more complex and required careful planning to protect her heart's
electrical conduction system.
To reduce the risk of injury to this delicate
system - which can cause complete heart block and require a pacemaker - Sidra
Medicine's cardiac team used intraoperative conduction system mapping during
Dana's surgery. Dr. Husnu Firat Altin, Senior Attending Physician from the
Cardiovascular Surgery Division, said: "Dana's condition required us to
balance the complexity of the surgery with what could give her the best
possible outcome in the long term. By mapping the conduction tissue during
surgery, we were able to identify the areas that needed to be protected and
plan the repair accordingly."
Dana recovered faster than anticipated,
completing the intensive care phase sooner than expected and was discharged
ahead of the projected timeline. Follow-up assessments showed an excellent
surgical result, with a normal and stable heart rhythm and no evidence of
injury to the conduction system. Her father said: "To any parent going
through a similar journey, I would say, have faith, because after the most
difficult days, happier days can come. We are deeply grateful to Sidra
Medicine."
Dana's case reflects Sidra Medicine's growing capabilities in complex congenital heart surgery and surgical electrophysiology. The hospital continues to invest in advanced technologies and clinical expertise, with further developments in advanced intraoperative ablation procedures planned as part of its cardiac care services. World Heart Day, observed annually on September 29, raises awareness of cardiovascular health and the importance of improving access to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
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