The cardiac team at the Aspen Medical-managed Lautoka Hospital has successfully completed its first Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS)-guided coronary stenting procedure at the hospital’s recently opened Cardiac Catheterisation (Cath) Lab.
The landmark procedure was led by a specialist team including Aspen Medical Consultant Cardiologist Bharatvansh Bali.
It was performed last week without complications, and the patient was discharged the following day in a stable condition.
IVUS is an advanced imaging technology that allows doctors to view the inside of coronary arteries using ultrasound from within the blood vessel itself.
Often compared to placing a tiny camera inside the artery, the technology enables clinicians to accurately assess the severity and extent of vessel narrowing and tailor treatment with greater precision.
This approach reduces the risk of future re-narrowing and improves long-term patient outcomes.
Dr Bali said the introduction of IVUS-guided stenting represents a major advancement for cardiac care in Fiji.
“This technology allows us to make better clinical decisions and deliver optimal care locally. It represents a major step forward in providing advanced interventional cardiology services for patients in Fiji,” he said.
He added that the new capability means patients with complex heart disease can now access high-end, evidence-based interventional procedures at Lautoka Hospital without needing to travel overseas.
The achievement marks a significant milestone for Aspen Medical in strengthening specialist healthcare services in Fiji and improving access to advanced cardiac treatment for patients across the country.
