In a groundbreaking medical milestone, a six-year-old boy named Ayansh has become one of India’s first patients to undergo a Transcatheter Fontan procedure—a safer, minimally invasive alternative to traditional open-heart surgery for complex congenital heart defects.
Ayansh was born with a rare heart condition where his right heart was underdeveloped. At just six months old, he underwent the Glenn procedure, which redirected blood flow from the upper body directly to the lungs, bypassing the malformed heart chamber.
The final stage of treatment, known as the Fontan procedure, is typically performed at this age but carries high risks—open-heart surgery, chest re-operation, excessive bleeding, and prolonged recovery. However, given the risks involved and the child’s fragile condition, doctors took an extraordinary step.
“We opted for the Transcatheter Fontan—a minimally invasive, safer alternative. This approach eliminated the need for reopening the chest, significantly reducing trauma, pain, and hospital stay,” said Dr. Garg, the lead cardiologist on the case.
Signs of Hope Within Days
The results were nothing short of miraculous. Ayansh’s oxygen levels steadily improved, and the bluish tint on his skin—a common symptom of oxygen deficiency—began to disappear.
“Early diagnosis and timely intervention saved Ayansh’s life. Unfortunately, such defects often go undetected in rural India. Awareness is key,” Dr. Garg added.
Though the root causes of such congenital defects remain uncertain, genetic factors are often suspected. Ayansh’s story is now a beacon of hope for thousands of families navigating similar challenges.
