Rare ‘Frozen Elephant Trunk’ Technique Saves Patient in Complex Aortic Surgery at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central

Mumbai, June 20, 2024 – Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central achieved a significant medical milestone with the successful application of the ‘Frozen Elephant Trunk’ (FET) technique in treating a life-threatening aortic condition. Dr. Gulshan Rohra, a renowned cardiac surgeon, led the complex procedure, which involved innovative surgical methods to address a critical defect in the patient’s aorta.

The 50-year-old Rizwan Sayyed patient arrived at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central with a severe aortic bulge and high blood pressure, symptoms indicating a potential rupture of the aorta—a condition with grave implications if left untreated. Recognizing the urgency, Dr. Gulshan Rohra along with Dr. Vishal N. Pingle and his team opted for the advanced FET technique, rarely performed in Mumbai.

The FET procedure is a sophisticated approach that combines traditional open surgery with modern endovascular techniques. It entails replacing the ascending aorta, including crucial branch vessels, to stabilize the aortic wall and prevent further complications such as rupture and life-threatening bleeding.

Key Procedure Highlights:
● Cardiopulmonary Bypass (CPB): Utilized to temporarily take over heart and lung functions.
● Circulatory Arrest: Body temperature lowered to 22°C to halt blood circulation for 40 minutes throughout the body except the brain, reducing the risk of bleeding.
● Stent Deployment: A specialized graft (Evita Neo) with a stent was meticulously positioned and secured within the aorta. Dr Gulshan Rohra is the first heart surgeon in India to use E-Vita Neo FET hybrid graft.
● Restoration of Blood Flow: Circulation was restored post-surgery to ensure continuous blood supply to vital organs, including the brain.

The entire surgical endeavor spanned approximately 11 hours, demanding exceptional precision and skill from the medical team. Despite the complexity, the patient’s recovery was swift and remarkable, with no neurological complications observed within days of the procedure.

Explaining the complexity of the technique, Dr Rohra explained, “This case underscores the critical role of advanced surgical techniques in managing complex aortic conditions. The successful outcome reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality care and leveraging cutting-edge treatments to save lives.”

Dr. Virendra Chauhan, Centre Head at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, elaborated on the achievement, stating, “The successful application of the ‘Frozen Elephant Trunk’ technique at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central represents a pivotal advancement in our ability to address severe aortic disorders. This procedure exemplifies our hospital’s dedication to pushing medical boundaries and underscores our commitment to providing patients with the most effective and innovative treatments available.”

Dr Aparna Kaushik, Cardiac Anaesthetist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central added, “The Frozen Elephant Trunk technique represents a monumental leap in the surgical treatment of complex aortic conditions. Our ability to execute such an intricate procedure with a favourable outcome is a direct result of meticulous planning, teamwork, and the advanced medical technologies at our disposal. This case not only highlights the capabilities of our team but also sets a new benchmark in cardiac surgery in India.”

The patient’s family, amidst personal challenges, made a brave decision to pursue the intricate procedure, driven by hope and trust in the expertise at Wockhardt Hospitals. The patient himself expressed profound gratitude, stating, “I am incredibly thankful to Dr. Rohra and the entire team at Wockhardt Hospitals. Their skill and dedication have given me a new lease on life. I am already on my feet, feeling stronger each day. This experience has been life-changing, and I owe my second chance at life to this exceptional medical team.”

This successful outcome stands as a testament to the hospital’s dedication to patient care and medical excellence.