Latest news with #InstitutJantungNegara
BusinessToday
4 days ago
- Health
- BusinessToday
No Wires, No Limits: A Bold Leap in Cardiac Tech
Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) has made history with a medical first for Southeast Asia. The team successfully implanted the Abbott AVEIR™ DR, the world's first dual-chamber leadless pacemaker. Approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2023, this device is a game-changer for individuals with heart rhythm disorders. 'This groundbreaking dual-chamber leadless pacemaker will revolutionise care for our patients and significantly expand the number of people we can help,' said Dr Azlan, Senior Consultant Cardiologist and Clinical Director of Interventional Electrophysiology and Implantable Devices at IJN. 'By eliminating traditional wires (leads) and surgical pockets, the system reduces common complications such as infections, lead dislodgement, and vessel blockage.' Designed for individuals with bradycardia (a slower-than-normal heart rate), AVEIR™ DR represents a significant leap in cardiac pacing. Unlike traditional pacemakers that rely on wires and are implanted under the skin, this system uses two tiny devices (each about one-tenth the size of a conventional pacemaker) implanted directly into the heart's right atrium and ventricle. At the core of this advancement is Abbott's proprietary i2i™ (implant-to-implant) communication technology. This system uses high-frequency pulses conducted through the body's blood flow to synchronise the two pacemakers in real-time. It not only provides beat-to-beat coordination but also conserves battery life far more efficiently than Bluetooth® or radio frequency-based systems. 'This technology opens up new possibilities for patients with abnormal heart rhythms,' added Dr Azlan. 'It also allows real-time pacing analysis during implantation, enabling precise positioning and reducing procedural risks.' At IJN, innovation is not just about adopting the latest medical devices—it's about improving patient outcomes. The successful use of the AVEIR™ DR system is a significant step forward for heart care in the region and further cements IJN's standing as a leader in cardiovascular medicine. Cardiovascular disease continues to pose a serious challenge in Malaysia and across Southeast Asia. IJN's Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Datuk Sri Dr Mohamed Ezani Md Taib, emphasised the importance of early diagnosis, public awareness, and the integration of advanced medical solutions to achieve better patient outcomes. Addressing media questions during a press conference, Dr Azlan addressed questions from the media about the long-term outcomes and potential limitations of the device. He noted that, based on over a decade of experience, the complication rate for leadless pacemakers remains very low—less than 1% in the short term and only slightly higher over the long term. The process of replacing the device when the battery is depleted is also simpler and safer, as there are no leads to remove. As stated, the device is specifically intended for patients with confirmed slow or irregular heart rhythms, typically diagnosed through ECG or other monitoring tools. While pacemakers are not suitable for all heart rhythm disorders, IJN's team is committed to training doctors from across Malaysia and the region to expand access to this life-changing technology. Plans are also underway to collaborate with manufacturers on future innovations tailored to specific patient needs. As with any new medical technology, cost remains a consideration. IJN is working to structure pricing that makes the device accessible to both public and private patients. The hospital's model of using private-sector revenue to subsidise public care will also help ensure broader access as the technology becomes more widely adopted. As the world's first and only dual-chamber leadless pacemaker, the AVEIR™ DR represents a significant advancement in minimally invasive heart care. Its wire-free design reduces risks, enables quicker recovery, and allows for future upgrades—reflecting Abbott's vision to empower patients to live fuller, healthier lives. Related
Free Malaysia Today
22-05-2025
- Health
- Free Malaysia Today
Advancing cardiothoracic surgery in the Asean region
Teams from IJN and the American Association for Thoracic Surgery alongside workshop participants, comprising cardiothoracic doctors from all over the world, on May 12. (Muhammad Rabbani Jamian @ FMT Lifestyle) KUALA LUMPUR : Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) recently partnered with the American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) and the Malaysian Association for Thoracic & Cardiovascular Surgery to organise the AATS Foundation Cardiothoracic Workshop. Held on May 11-13, the event was aimed at facilitating cross-border knowledge exchange in cardiothoracic surgery – a field of medicine focusing on procedures involving the thorax or chest, especially the heart, lung and oesophagus. It also provided valuable networking opportunities, with participants spending the first two days at IJN and the final day at Serdang Hospital. 'As a healthcare provider, IJN is proud to host this event because it reflects our commitment towards the Asean chairmanship of the country,' IJN CEO Dr Ezani Taib said in his opening speech. Malaysia assumed the role of Asean chair on Jan 1, following an annual rotation system based on the alphabetical order of the English names of member states. A total of 52 cardiothoracic doctors participated in the workshop, representing several countries: Indonesia (9), Vietnam (4), Philippines (1), Thailand (3), Myanmar (3), Malaysia (30), Brunei (1) and Bangladesh (1). Four live surgeries – three adult and one paediatric – were performed at IJN during the workshop. (Muhammad Rabbani Jamian @ FMT Lifestyle) During the session at IJN, four live surgeries were successfully performed – three adult cases and one paediatric. The procedures, carried out by surgeons from AATS and IJN, included mitral valve repair, coronary artery bypass graft, aortic valve replacement, and the Ross-Konno procedure – a surgical technique used to treat aortic valve disease, especially in children and young adults. The surgeries were broadcast live to the participants, allowing for real-time observation, interactive discussions, and in-depth knowledge sharing. Speaking with FMT Lifestyle, Dr Nazeri Nordin, head of cardiothoracic and vascular surgery and senior consultant cardiothoracic surgeon at IJN, explained that the participants had received grants from the AATS Foundation to attend the workshop. Established in 1917, AATS and its philanthropic arm, the AATS Foundation, are dedicated to advancing the field of cardiothoracic surgery. 'At the AATS Foundation, we're very dedicated to global education and training. We strongly believe the obligation of those with knowledge is to teach others and, therefore, spread the knowledge for the benefit of patients all around the world,' Dr Joseph Woo, chair of cardiothoracic surgery at Stanford University, told FMT Lifestyle. Woo is also president-elect of AATS and secretary of the AATS Foundation. (From left) Dr Ezani Taib and Dr Nazeri Nordin from IJN, and Dr Joseph Woo, chair of cardiothoracic surgery at Stanford University. Explaining why IJN was selected, Woo said: 'IJN represents the gold standard of heart and thoracic care in Southeast Asia. The level of clinical expertise, institutional commitment to training, and strong leadership make it an ideal partner for this regional collaboration.' When he first visited IJN nearly 15 years ago, Woo recalled seeing technology that had not yet been adopted in the United States. 'So, this is a good example of us learning from each other and teaching each other – bi-directional learning throughout the world,' he said. IJN, the largest heart hospital in Malaysia, has internationally recognised clinical accreditation, comprehensive training programmes, and a long-standing commitment to innovation in cardiovascular care. In 2023, it was selected as one of the four finalists for the Flagship Medical Tourism Hospital Programme. The initiative, slated to conclude this year, aims to raise Malaysia's global healthcare profile and elevate the country's private healthcare services. 'This event reflects our commitment towards that goal, by bringing international doctors – not just from the Asean region, but also from the US – to share their experiences. With that, we'll be able to deliver better patient care across the region,' Ezani shared. Live broadcasts of the surgeries enabled real-time observation, interactive discussions, and in-depth knowledge sharing. (Muhammad Rabbani Jamian @ FMT Lifestyle) The collaboration, he added, is a testament to IJN's standing as a centre of excellence not only in Malaysia but throughout the region. 'As we continue our journey with AATS, we are proud to position IJN as a regional hub for cardiothoracic training and care for Asean. It reflects our role in shaping the future of heart surgery, not just for Malaysians but for the broader Southeast Asian community,' Ezani said.
Malaysiakini
24-04-2025
- Health
- Malaysiakini
IJN performs Malaysia first Paediatric LVAD implantation
KUALA LUMPUR, 24 April 2025 – Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) has made medical history by successfully performing Malaysia's first Paediatric Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVALJ) implantation, marking a significant breakthrough in the nation's paediatric cardiac care capabilities. The pioneering procedure was carried out on 29 March 2025 on 12-year-old Jackson Foong Yi Jie, who was urgently referred to IJN with symptoms of advanced heart failure. Upon admission, Jackson's condition deteriorated rapidly, culminating in seizures and ventricular fibrillation—a life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia. In a critical decision, IJN's multidisciplinary team implanted a Paediatric LVAD--a mechanical circulatory support device designed to temporarily take over the pumping function of the heart as bridge to recovery. The device stabilizes patients with severe heart failure, offering the heart time to recover or serving as a bridge to heart transplantation if required. "This was a life-saving intervention," said Mr. Khairul Anuar bin Abdul Aziz, Deputy Head of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery Department, who led the operation. "The LVAD enabled us to maintain circulation and provide the necessary time for the heart to regain function." A multidisciplinary team—including cardiothoracic surgeons, anesthetists, paediatric cardiologists, perfusionists, nurses, and operating theatre technicians—were mobilized to ensure the procedure's success. After 16 days of LVAD support, Jackson's heart function improved significantly, allowing the device to be safely removed on 14 April 2025. "Jackson has this contagious smile, and everyone involved in his care is thrilled that he has made an almost full recovery—with no neurological symptoms despite experiencing cardiac arrest,' said Dr Joyce Darshinee, Consultant Paediatric Cardiac Intensivist, who played a key role in Jackson's postoperative care. "Fortunately, his heart recovered, and he didn't need a heart transplant." Jackson is making a remarkable recovery on the ward and is targeted to be discharged from IJN soon. This landmark achievement reflects IJN's steadfast commitment to advancing treatment for complex paediatric heart conditions and reinforces its leadership in cardiac innovation, both nationally and regionally. This content is provided by IJN The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini. Interested in having your press releases, exclusive interviews, or branded content articles on Malaysiakini? For more information, contact [email protected] or [email protected]
Yahoo
14-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Former Malaysian leader Abdullah Ahmad Badawi dies aged 85
Former Malaysian prime minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has died aged 85, medics said. The Institut Jantung Negara, the hospital in Kuala Lumpur where he was being treated, said he had been suffering from heart disease. Mr Abdullah, Malaysia's fifth leader, served from 2003 to 2009. He was pressured to resign to take responsibility for the governing coalition's dismal results in national elections. After leaving politics, he kept a low profile. In 2022, his son-in-law, Khairy Jamaluddin, disclosed that Mr Abdullah had dementia that was progressively worsening. He said Mr Abdullah had trouble speaking and could not recognise his family. Mr Abdullah entered the critical care unit at the National Heart Institute on April 25 last year after being diagnosed with spontaneous pneumothorax, a collapsed lung that occurs without any apparent cause. Affectionately known as 'Pak Lah', Mr Abdullah was admitted to Kuala Lumpur's State Institute of Heart on Sunday after experiencing breathing difficulties where he was closely monitored by a cardiac specialist team, but he passed away on Monday morning. He was a moderate who extended the country's political freedoms, but was criticised for lacklustre leadership. Mr Abdullah took office in October 2003, riding a wave of popularity as he replaced Mahathir Mohamad, a domineering, sharp-tongued leader known for his semi-authoritarian rule during 22 years in office. A seasoned politician who held many cabinet positions, Mr Abdullah was handpicked by Mr Mahathir, who believed a soft-spoken, unambitious leader would maintain his policies. Initially, Mr Abdullah won support with promises of institutional reforms and his brand of moderate Islam. He was known fondly as 'Pak Lah', or 'Uncle Lah'. He pledged greater political freedoms with more space for critics, and vowed to end corruption after a government minister was hauled to court on related allegations. Oh Ei Sun from Singapore's Institute of International Affairs said: 'During his rule, the country transitioned from a very authoritarian rule under Mahathir to a more multifaceted regime. It provided some breathing space for many Malaysians after more than two decades of very suffocating rule.' Months after taking office, Mr Abdullah led his National Front governing coalition to a landslide victory in a 2004 general election seen as a stamp of approval of his leadership. That helped him to partially step out of Mr Mahathir's shadow – but the euphoria did not last. In the following years, Mr Abdullah faced criticism inside and outside his party for generally lacklustre and ineffectual leadership. He did not follow through on promises to eradicate corruption, reform the judiciary and strengthen institutions such as the police and the civil service. Critics slammed Mr Abdullah for concurrently taking on the finance minister and internal security minister posts. He was often criticized for dozing off during meetings or at public events, which he blamed on a sleep disorder. Mr Khairy, his son-in-law, led a team of advisers in the Prime Minister's Office whom critics said influenced Mr Abdullah's decisions and controlled access to him. Mr Abdullah also fell out with Mr Mahathir after he axed some of the former leader's projects, including a proposed bridge to Singapore. Mr Mahathir turned into one of his fiercest critics and accused Abdullah of nepotism and inefficiency. While Mr Abdullah was viewed as a weak leader, he ushered in limited freedom of speech and allowed a more critical media. Conservatives in his party said this was his undoing, as it bolstered a newly resurgent opposition led by reformist Anwar Ibrahim. Mr Anwar, Malaysia's current leader, became Prime Minister after 2022 elections.
Associated Press
14-04-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Former Malaysian leader Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who extended political freedoms, dies at 85
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — Former Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has died aged 85 of heart disease, according to the Institut Jantung Negara, the hospital in Kuala Lumpur where he was being treated. Abdullah, Malaysia's fifth leader, served from 2003 to 2009, when he was pressured to resign to take responsibility for the governing coalition's dismal results in national elections. He kept a low profile after leaving politics. In 2022, his son-in-law, Khairy Jamaluddin, disclosed that Abdullah had dementia that was progressively worsening. He said Abdullah had trouble speaking and could not recognize his family.
