Pune: In a pioneering feat of precision and patient-first innovation, Dr Smruti Hindaria, Pune’s first female cardiac surgeon, successfully performed a minimally invasive triple vessel bypass surgery at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Deccan Gymkhana, redefining the recovery timeline for critical heart patients.
The 48-year-old patient, a local IT professional, had been facing debilitating breathlessness for three months due to severe triple vessel coronary artery disease and a reduced ejection fraction (EF) of just 35%. Despite needing immediate surgery, the patient was hesitant to undergo traditional open-heart surgery via a full sternotomy.
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MICAS: Redefining Cardiac Surgery with Speed and Safety
The surgical team, led by Dr Smruti Hindaria, opted for Minimally Invasive Coronary Artery Surgery (MICAS) – a cutting-edge technique involving a 2–3 inch incision between the ribs, avoiding any bone cutting.
“MICAS drastically reduces pain, trauma, and blood loss while allowing for quicker healing and near-invisible scarring,” said Dr Smruti Hindaria, Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon.
In contrast to conventional bypass surgeries that typically involve a 10–12 inch midline incision, 200–300 ml of blood loss, and 6–8 weeks of recovery, the MICAS approach enabled:
- ICU discharge within 48 hours
- Full hospital discharge in just 5 days
- Return to normal life within 10–15 days
Collaborative Surgical Success of Dr Smruti Hindaria and Expert Team
The procedure was supported by an expert team including Dr Shantanu Shastri (Cardiac Anesthetist), perfusionists, physician assistants, and scrub nurses. Extensive preoperative assessments—such as coronary angiography, 2D echo, high-resolution CT, and pulmonary function tests – ensured the patient’s anatomical and physiological suitability for MICAS.
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“For procedures requiring single-lung ventilation, optimal lung capacity and anatomy are crucial,” noted Dr Shantanu Shastri.
Who is Eligible for MICAS?
While MICAS offers superior outcomes for many patients, it may not be suitable for:
- Severely enlarged hearts
- Ejection fraction below 25%
- Elderly patients (especially 75+)
- Those requiring additional procedures like valve repairs
The Future of Cardiac Surgery in India
“Minimally invasive techniques like MICAS represent a shift not just in approach, but in mindset,” added Dr Smruti Hindaria. “We are moving toward robotic-assisted and endoscopic procedures, enabling faster recovery and superior patient outcomes.”
As Sahyadri Hospitals continues to lead innovation in heart care, this landmark procedure underscores a new reality: minimally invasive cardiac surgery is no longer experimental – it is a life-changing solution available today.
