June 7, 2024
Successful CTO Procedures Highlighted at Groundbreaking Workshop for Sri Lankan Interventional Cardiologists
In a significant stride towards advancing cardiac care in Sri Lanka, the Sri Lanka College of Cardiology (SLCC), in collaboration with Asiri Central Hospital, successfully organized a Complex Coronary Interventional (CTO) workshop on the 3rd and 4th of June. The event took place at the state-of-the-art Asiri Central Cardiac Cath Lab, drawing attention from medical professionals across the nation.
The workshop was led by one of the world's foremost experts in Chronic Total Occlusions (CTO), Dr. Wataru Nagamatsu. Dr. Nagamatsu, an Intervention Cardiologist and CTO Operator at Hokusetsu General Hospital in Osaka, Japan, brought his unparalleled expertise to the event, ensuring it was a resounding success. His presence was a significant highlight, offering participants a rare opportunity to learn from a leading figure in the global field.
Over the two days, a total of five complex procedures were performed on patients suffering from Chronic Total Occlusions (On patients who had CTOs in their coronary arteries). These procedures, often considered challenging due to the complete blockage of coronary arteries, were executed with precision and skill, showcasing the advanced techniques and methodologies employed by Dr. Nagamatsu.
The primary aim of this workshop was to enhance the capabilities of interventional cardiologists in Sri Lanka, providing them with hands-on experience and exposure to the latest advancements in coronary interventions. This initiative is expected to significantly improve the quality of cardiac care available in the country, enabling local cardiologists to perform these complex procedures with greater confidence and success.
In addition to interventional cardiologists, the learning from the workshop was extended to the Catheterisation Laboratory teams in both private and government hospitals. These healthcare professionals were given the invaluable opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge and experience in managing and assisting with CTO procedures. This comprehensive approach ensures that the entire cardiac care team is well-prepared to handle such complex cases, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.
The success of this workshop underscores the commitment of SLCC and Asiri Central Hospital to advancing cardiac care in Sri Lanka. By facilitating such high-caliber training programs, they are paving the way for a future where even the most challenging cardiac conditions can be treated effectively within the country.
This event marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to elevate the standards of healthcare in Sri Lanka, promising a brighter future for cardiac patients nationwide.
