KG Hospital Performs First-of-its-Kind Minimally Invasive Triple Bypass & Valve Replacement Surgery
KG Hospital, Coimbatore, has successfully performed a rare and first-of-its-kind heart surgery in India, combining valve replacement and triple-vessel bypass surgery through a minimally invasive approach — without cutting open the chest bone (sternum), a standard requirement in traditional open-heart procedures.
The surgery was led by Dr. Arun Kumar, Senior Consultant in Cardiothoracic Surgery and a specialist in Robotic and Minimally Invasive Procedures, who drew inspiration from a technique pioneered by a Ukrainian surgeon who has performed 17 such cases globally.
The procedure was carried out on a 60-year-old patient, who had been suffering from both valvular heart disease and coronary artery blockages. What makes this surgery exceptional is that both conditions were treated simultaneously through a small left chest incision measuring just 16 cm by 7 cm — entirely without cutting the sternum, using only muscle-access techniques.
The patient, Mr. K S Muhammad Nizamuddin, International Athletic Coach from Coimbatore suddenly experienced dizziness and consulted Dr. Balasubramaniam, a cardiologist at KG Hospital. After conducting a complete set of diagnostic tests, Dr. Balasubramaniam informed Mr. Muhammad that he would require both a bypass surgery and a valve replacement surgery because of calcium deposit in the aortic valve.
Considering the complexity of the procedure, Dr. Balasubramaniam referred him to Dr. Arun Kumar, a specialist in robotic and minimally invasive surgeries.
Upon examination, Dr. Arun Kumar confirmed that Mr. Muhammad had a blockage in his coronary arteries and required a heart valve replacement. Performing both procedures simultaneously is generally considered highly challenging. However, Dr. Arun Kumar assured him that the bypass surgery would be performed using robotic assistance through small incisions, making the procedure less invasive.
“In most traditional surgeries, we need to saw open the chest bone to reach the heart. Here, we entered through the space between the ribs, performed both surgeries with minimal trauma, and achieved a smooth and fast recovery,” said Dr. Arun Kumar.
Just five days after surgery, the patient resumed walking and basic activities. A month later, he is fully active and coaching students again — a remarkable outcome considering the scale and complexity of the operation.
Speaking about his experience at KG Hospital, the patient expressed his deep appreciation, stating that the hospital excels in both medical care and technology, and that even the most complex treatments and surgeries can be successfully performed. He extended his heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Arun Kumar.
Dr G Bakthavathsalam, Chairman, KG Hospital, Coimbatore said that doctors at KG Hospital have carried suture less aortic valve replacement using robotics and this is the first time in India that Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery (MICS Procedure) was carried at KG hospital.
A New Era in Cardiac Surgery
The KG Hospital team used a combination of Minimally Invasive and Robotic-Assisted Surgery:
- Valve Replacement Surgery – replacing the patient’s damaged heart valve
- Triple Bypass Surgery – rerouting three major blood vessels to improve blood flow
This approach significantly reduces:
- Post-operative pain
- Hospital stay
- Risk of complications
- Visible scarring
The hospital also recently performed a Totally Endoscopic Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) Closure through a 1.5 cm incision — a procedure that normally requires a 14 cm cut in the chest.
Redefining Cardiac Care in India
This achievement highlights KG Hospital’s position as a leader in next-generation cardiac care. The adoption of robotic and endoscopic techniques represents a major leap forward in improving patient comfort, safety, and recovery outcomes.
“This is not just a surgical success — it is a milestone for India in embracing advanced, patient-friendly cardiac care. We believe this approach can revolutionize how complex heart procedures are performed in the future,” added Dr. Arun Kumar.
For further information, visuals, or interviews, please contact:
Media Cell – KG Hospital, Coimbatore
