Image Source : BW Healthcare World
Aster MIMS Calicut has achieved a life-saving medical first for Kerala, and only the fifth such case in India, by successfully performing a fetal heart intervention—formally known as a Fetal Balloon Aortic Valvotomy—on a six-month-old fetus (22 weeks gestation). This pioneering procedure opens new hope for families faced with deadly congenital heart defects before birth.
Key Highlights
A routine prenatal check-up revealed that the fetus carried by a 25-year-old mother from Wayanad had a critically narrowed aortic valve, leading to severe restriction in blood flow and risk to both fetal survival and long-term heart function.
Dr. Renu P. Kurup, head of pediatric cardiology at Aster MIMS, led the diagnosis and advocacy for intervention, emphasizing that early action—inside the womb—could give the baby a shot at a normal heart after birth.
The first attempt at balloon dilation, performed through a tiny incision and guided by ultrasound, was unsuccessful due to fetal positioning. The surgical team waited and prepared for another opportunity.
Three days later, with both the mother and baby stable and the fetus optimally positioned, the team successfully carried out the balloon valvuloplasty. Both mother and baby tolerated the procedure well, with immediate improvement in heart blood flow.
Medical Breakthrough and Teamwork
The expert panel included Dr. Edwin Francis, Dr. Remadevi K.S., Dr. Annu Jose, Dr. P.S. Priya, Dr. Nabeel Faisal, Dr. Swetha Thapa, Dr. Sujatha, and Dr. Renu P. Kurup—representing a range of specialities: fetal medicine, pediatric cardiology, anesthesia, radiology, and obstetrics.
The fetus was monitored continuously after the procedure. In July, the mother delivered a healthy baby via cesarean section at Kozhikode Medical College.
After birth, the newborn underwent a second, postnatal balloon valvuloplasty to further normalize heart function.
Compassion and Community Impact
This intervention was provided without cost to the family, who otherwise faced significant financial hardship. The hospital covered treatment and follow-up care, highlighting a commitment to equitable healthcare.
The mother expressed profound gratitude, crediting both the skill of the doctors and the hospital’s support for her baby’s survival.
The successful procedure establishes Aster MIMS Calicut as a reference center for advanced fetal cardiac care in South India, increasing awareness about the potential for early detection and intervention in congenital heart defects.
Broader Significance
Fetal balloon aortic valvotomy remains a rare procedure because of its complexity and the risks involved, including potential preterm labor, bleeding, and fetal distress. Success requires precise coordination, advanced imaging, and real-time expertise.
The intervention gives impacted babies a vastly improved chance for a healthy life; without it, many would develop severe, irreversible heart dysfunction after birth.
This breakthrough highlights the growing capacity of Indian hospitals to deliver world-standard fetal therapy, previously accessible only in top international centers.
Looking Forward
The team at Aster MIMS hopes to create awareness among expectant mothers and healthcare providers about the importance of fetal anomaly scans and timely referral for specialized interventions.
Continued investment in technology, training, and multidisciplinary teamwork is expected to make life-saving care accessible to more families across India.
Sources: Aster MIMS Hospital (official press release and case summary), Mathrubhumi, English, August 14, 2025; Indian Express; Dr. Renu P. Kurup; Kerala medical news reports
Advertisement
Advertisement
