Addu Equatorial Hospital Cath Lab Treats 16 Patients Since Launch

The Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory (Cath Lab) at Addu Equatorial Hospital has treated 16 patients since its launch on 28 January.

The interventional cardiology service was introduced through a collaboration between Addu Equatorial Hospital and Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital to expand advanced cardiac care services in Addu City.

The Cath Lab is equipped for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. The facility uses a thin catheter tube to examine coronary blood vessels. During the procedure, contrast dye is injected into the vessels, and X-ray imaging is used to detect narrowing or blockages. When necessary, medical devices such as stents are inserted to help restore normal blood flow.

Since the facility began operations, seven patients have undergone Coronary Angiography (CAG) and angioplasty procedures, while nine patients received diagnostic CAG services.

Coronary Angiography is a diagnostic procedure in which a catheter is inserted through the wrist or arm to examine coronary arteries. Contrast dye is injected, and imaging is performed to identify any blockages.

Angioplasty is performed when a blockage is detected. During the treatment, a small balloon is inflated at the narrowed section of the artery to widen it, and a stent is typically placed to keep the blood vessel open and improve blood circulation to the heart.

The introduction of the Cath Lab represents a major step in strengthening specialised cardiac treatment services in the southern region of the Maldives.