Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, Haryana, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first hospital in India to successfully employ Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in treating patients with blood clotting issues. This groundbreaking development was demonstrated in the case of a 62-year-old patient suffering from a blood clot in the lung and a deep vein in the leg, who received treatment utilizing AI technology at Medanta Hospital.
The hospital utilized the Penumbra Flash 12 F Catheter, an AI-driven device, to perform endovascular procedures and remove blood clots. This marked the culmination of successful treatment for 25 cases of pulmonary embolism, a condition characterized by blood clots obstructing blood flow to a lung artery, since July 2023.
According to medical professionals, the adoption of this "ground-breaking technology" not only minimizes blood loss but also reduces complications such as anemia, thereby expediting the recovery process for patients. Dr Naresh Trehan, a cardiologist and Chairman of Medanta Hospital, explained that the AI component allows the extraction of clots without removing blood, eliminating the need for major operations and associated risks.
The patient in question, Narendra Singh, a pilot, experienced shortness of breath, sudden leg pain, and swelling. Dr Tarun Grover, who performed the procedure, utilized the Penumbra Flash 12 F catheter to navigate complex veins and promptly relieve pain and swelling. This approach allowed the patient to be cleared for discharge within 48 days, accompanied by follow-up treatment instructions.
In contrast to traditional surgical methods, the procedure conducted with local anesthesia allows the patient to be awake and witness the process firsthand. Dr Rajiv Parakh, an Endovascular specialist, emphasized that the Penumbra Lightning method minimizes risks associated with blood loss, leading to quicker rehabilitation, fewer complications, and improved overall recovery time.
Dr Naresh highlighted the introduction of this technology as a significant advancement that aids individuals dealing with pulmonary embolism, facilitating faster recovery and improved outcomes. Additionally, Medanta Hospital has initiated a Pulmonary Embolism Interventions and Response Team (PERT) program to raise awareness about this potentially fatal condition, even among younger individuals.
