The National Cardiothoracic Centre (NCTC) at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital has recorded a major milestone in cardiac healthcare with the successful completion of its first two Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (OPCAB) surgeries.
The groundbreaking procedures were performed with support from visiting Indian cardiac surgeon Dr. Shridhar Padagatti, introducing a new and advanced approach to coronary artery bypass surgery at the Centre.
The achievement marks a significant step forward in the Centre’s efforts to expand access to specialised cardiac care and strengthen its position as a leading heart treatment facility in the region.
Unlike conventional bypass surgery, the OPCAB technique is performed on a beating heart without the use of a heart-lung machine. Medical experts say the procedure can offer selected patients several benefits, including reduced complications, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times.
The successful surgeries were carried out under the leadership of the Director of the Centre, Dr. Kow Entsua-Mensah, and involved a multidisciplinary team of cardiothoracic surgeons, cardiologists, anaesthetists, perfusionists, nurses and theatre staff.
Management of the Centre described the development as a testament to its commitment to clinical excellence, innovation and the delivery of world-class cardiac services.
The introduction of the OPCAB procedure is expected to enhance the Centre’s coronary surgery programme and provide patients in Ghana with access to cutting-edge treatment options that were previously limited.
The Centre congratulated the surgical and clinical teams involved in the procedures and reaffirmed its commitment to advancing cardiovascular healthcare and expanding access to advanced cardiac services for patients across Ghana and beyond.
