Sep 10, Kathmandu - Kathmandu Medical College (KMC) has successfully performed the country's first intricate procedure to reopen the major blood vessel supplying blood from the heart to the brain, spanning from the neck to the brain itself, without surgical intervention.

The procedure was carried out on 22-year-old Bipana Magar from Dhading, who received advanced treatment through blood vessel intervention. Due to Takayasu arteritis, a rare disease causing narrowing or blockage of major arteries, her brain's primary artery had been completely blocked for an extended period. Additionally, she suffered a sudden blockage in the middle cerebral artery of her brain, resulting in a stroke.

Restoring blood flow in a patient with long-standing arterial blockage and an acute stroke posed significant challenges. The treatment was led by Dr. Arun Poudel, a renowned neurosurgeon with specialized expertise in neurovascular procedures from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi. Dr. Poudel currently heads the neurovascular unit at KMC. The treatment team also included Dr. Pravin Khatri.

The procedure involved a minimally invasive approach through blood vessels in the head, where a special balloon was used to widen the long-standing blocked artery. A stent was then placed to keep the artery open, restoring blood flow. Subsequently, the blood clot lodged in the right middle cerebral artery was mechanically removed, and blood circulation to the brain was re-established.

Dr. Poudel reported remarkable improvement in the patient's condition post-procedure. He expressed gratitude to the medical team and described the case as one of the most memorable and challenging in his six years of medical practice.

The comprehensive treatment involved collaboration among neurovascular specialists, neurologists, cardiologists, and intensive care teams. The procedure not only addressed the long-term arterial blockage but also provided immediate intervention for the stroke, exemplifying the potential for complex neurovascular care in Nepal with proper infrastructure and skilled professionals.

Takayasu arteritis, a rare disease affecting large blood vessels, can cause narrowing or complete blockage, impairing blood flow to vital organs, including the brain. Medical experts emphasize that with adequate facilities, trained personnel, and multidisciplinary coordination, such complex surgeries are feasible within Nepal.

Dr. Sunil Kumar Sharma, the hospital's director and former Member of Parliament, has been actively promoting accessible healthcare. Under his leadership, KMC has been conducting free health camps across various locations, aiming to provide free treatment to underprivileged patients and support those suffering from complex illnesses.

Recently, KMC announced free treatment for all citizens affected by the floods in the Bhotekoshi region, reaffirming its commitment to community health and emergency response.

This achievement marks a significant step forward in Nepal’s neurosurgical capabilities and offers hope for patients with complex vascular conditions in the country.