Mysore/Mysuru: Narayana Hospital, Mysuru, has introduced a dedicated unit for timely management of Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) in young adults at its renowned Heart Valve Clinic and Structural Heart Disease Programme.

This unit, aimed at addressing the critical issue of SCD in young adults, is led by Dr. M.N. Ravi, Clinical Director and Senior Consultant – Cardiac Surgery at Narayana Hospital.

Sudden Cardiac Death is a tragic occurrence resulting from heart-related issues that transpire within an hour of symptom onset. Among the leading causes of SCD in young individuals is Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy (HOCM), a condition that affects approximately1 in 200 young adults.

This condition leads to the thickening and enlargement of the interventricular septum and left ventricular muscles, impeding the heart’s ability to efficiently pump blood, straining both the heart and lungs and causing irregular heart rhythms.

Key symptoms to be vigilant about prior to SCD include palpitations, chest pain during physical activity, dizziness or fainting, shortness of breath and excessive fatigue.

The management of HOCM involves a combination of medication and surgical intervention. Decisions regarding limitations on physical activity, including intense workouts, are made on a case-by-case basis, considering the underlying risk of fatal complications.

Over the course of 18 months, this unit has conducted screenings on numerous individuals. Most patients with moderate disease have benefited from tailored medication and lifestyle adjustments. Impressively, the unit’s surgical team, armed with advanced training in highly specialised techniques, has successfully operated 14 patients with severe HOCM.

This procedure, known as septal myectomy or extended septal myectomy, involves the surgical removal of abnormal muscle tissue from within the heart (below the aortic valve and wall of left ventricle) often in conjunction with valvular or bypass procedures as necessary. The outcomes have been consistently excellent.

Dr. M.N. Ravi’s expertise and leadership have ensured that Narayana Hospital remains at the forefront of cardiac care, addressing the needs of young adults at risk of sudden cardiac death.