PSH Hospitals’ Quick Response Saves Life

By SERAN DEVI

In a stunning display of prompt medical action, Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH Hospitals) saved the life of 58-year-old Shailen Kumar with a swift Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PPCI) after he suffered a life-threatening heart attack.

Shailen, a warehouse manager at Harrison’s Fiji Limited, was going about his usual workday when he suddenly experienced intense chest pain and cold sweats. The alarming symptoms signalled that something was gravely wrong.

“I felt an overwhelming pressure and a relentless cold sweat. I knew I had to act immediately,” Shailen recalled.

Recognizing the urgency, his colleagues rushed him to a nearby hospital, where doctors performed an electrocardiogram (ECG) and confirmed he was having a major heart attack.

Understanding the need for immediate specialized care, the medical team swiftly referred him to PSH Hospitals for advanced cardiac intervention.

Under the leadership of interventional cardiologist Dr. Srikar Miryala, the hospital initiated its advanced PPCI protocol.

“In emergency situations, every second counts. Quick decision-making and precise execution are critical to restoring blood flow and minimizing heart damage,” explained Dr. Miryala.

He also commended the patient’s family for their swift decision-making and consent for the procedure.

During the procedure, a catheter was skilfully navigated to the blocked artery, the blood clot was aspirated, and circulation was successfully restored.

Shailen, who had previously undergone several stenting procedures overseas, was particularly impressed by the speed and efficiency of the local team.

“The PSH team’s rapid intervention saved my life. Their quick actions not only stabilized my condition but also restored my faith in local healthcare,” he said.

“I always believed that world-class treatment was only available overseas, but my experience at PSH Hospitals has proven that exceptional, overseas-standard care is right at home in Fiji.”

Beyond this life-saving procedure, PSH Hospitals’ response highlights broader implications for the Fijian healthcare landscape.

Traditionally, patients in need of such critical interventions were thrombolysed, increasing the risk of intracranial bleeding. However, PPCI is the standard treatment modality for STEMI (ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction), preferred over thrombolysis.

With the introduction of advanced PPCI, the hospital is setting a new benchmark for accessible cardiac care, reducing both the financial burden and logistical challenges for local patients.

Hospital administrators and medical staff are equally proud of the hospital’s investment in cutting-edge technology and specialized training programs.

“Our goal is to ensure that every patient receives prompt, high-quality care, irrespective of where they come from,” stated Ritesh Kumar, Operations Manager at PSH Hospitals.

“The success of this procedure is a testament to the relentless dedication of our team and our commitment to transforming healthcare in Fiji.”

As Shailen Kumar continues his recovery, his story stands as a powerful reminder of the impact of timely medical intervention.

His experience is not only a personal victory but also a significant milestone for PSH Hospitals and the local community.

With advanced procedures like PPCI now available locally, more lives can be saved in those critical moments when every second truly counts.

For more information on PSH Hospitals’ cardiac services, visit www.psh.com.fj or contact the cardiology team at cardiology@psh.com.fj.

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