Medanta Hospital, located in Gurugram, Haryana, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first medical facility in the country to utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology for the successful treatment of patients with severe blood clotting issues. In a groundbreaking development, a 62-year-old patient, suffering from blood clots in both the lung and a deep vein in the leg, underwent a successful procedure employing AI technology at Medanta Hospital.This historic medical feat was accomplished through the deployment of the Penumbra Flash 12 F Catheter, an AI-driven device designed specifically for endovascular procedures. Since July 2023, Medanta Hospital has effectively treated 25 cases of pulmonary embolism using this advanced technology, marking a significant leap forward in the medical field.

The revolutionary AI technology not only facilitates the removal of blood clots but also minimizes blood loss during the procedure, thereby reducing complications such as anemia. Medical experts at Medanta emphasized that this breakthrough technology plays a crucial role in expediting patient recovery compared to traditional methods.Dr Naresh Trehan, cardiologist and Chairman of Medanta Hospital, highlighted the transformative aspect of the AI-driven procedure, stating, “Instead of opening the chest and arteries, you can now remove blood clots without extracting the blood. In the past, a major operation carried risks, but with AI, we mitigate those risks significantly.”

The patient at the center of this medical milestone, Narendra Singh, a pilot, presented with symptoms including shortness of breath, sudden leg pain, and swelling. Dr Tarun Grover, who conducted the procedure, detailed the successful application of the Penumbra Flash 12 F catheter, resulting in immediate relief and allowing for the patient's discharge within 48 hours with follow-up treatment instructions.Unlike traditional surgical methods, this innovative procedure is conducted under local anesthesia, with the patient remaining awake to witness the process firsthand. Dr Rajiv Parakh, an Endovascular specialist, emphasized the advantages of this approach, stating, “Penumbra Lightning minimizes risks associated with significant blood loss, ensuring quicker rehabilitation, reducing complications, and improving overall recovery time.”

In conjunction with this medical breakthrough, Medanta Hospital has initiated a Pulmonary Embolism Interventions and Response Team (PERT) program to enhance awareness about this potentially fatal condition, particularly among younger individuals. Dr Naresh Trehan underscored the significance of these advancements, stating, “The introduction of this technology signifies a remarkable advancement in aiding individuals afflicted with pulmonary embolism, enabling faster recovery and improved outcomes.”