Greater Noida, 11th September 2026: A 35-year-old carpenter from a village in Uttar Pradesh, who had been experiencing severe breathlessness and dizziness while walking, has successfully undergone a complex two-valve heart surgery through a Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery (MICS) approach at Sharda Hospital. The surgery was performed free of cost under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, providing access to advanced cardiac surgical care to the eligible beneficiary.

The patient, Rifaqat, was diagnosed with severe mitral stenosis, severe tricuspid regurgitation and severe pulmonary arterial hypertension. He underwent mitral valve replacement and tricuspid valve repair through a small, approximately 6-centimetre transaxillary incision, avoiding a conventional large chest incision.

Rifaqat was suffering from rheumatic heart disease, which had severely damaged and narrowed the mitral valve, restricting the flow of blood through the heart. The resulting increase in pressure in the lungs had also affected the right side of the heart, leading to significant leakage of the tricuspid valve. Given the severity and complexity of his condition, both valves required surgical intervention.

Following detailed evaluation and counselling, the cardiac surgery team opted for a minimally invasive approach rather than conventional surgery through a large chest incision. Dr. Akhil Kumar Rustagi, Senior Director & Head, Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, ShardaCare – Healthcity, performed the procedure, replacing the diseased mitral valve and repairing the tricuspid valve with an artificial ring.

Commenting on the procedure, Dr. Akhil Kumar Rustagi said, “This was a complex case involving two heart valves along with severe pulmonary hypertension, requiring careful planning and a precise surgical approach. The mitral valve was severely narrowed, while the increased pressure in the lungs had also affected the right side of the heart, resulting in significant tricuspid valve leakage. Both valves therefore needed to be addressed. We successfully performed both procedures through a minimally invasive approach using a 6-centimetre incision. For a young patient like Rifaqat, who is physically active and works as a carpenter, avoiding a conventional large chest incision can support a more comfortable recovery and an earlier return to normal physical activity.”

The procedure also highlights how eligible beneficiaries under the Ayushman Bharat scheme can access advanced and complex medical and surgical treatments. In Rifaqat’s case, the two-valve MICS procedure was performed at no cost to the patient under the scheme, enabling him to receive specialised cardiac care despite the complexity of his condition.

Access to such advanced procedures under Ayushman Bharat reflects the importance of expanding the availability of specialised healthcare beyond routine treatments. Complex cardiac surgeries, including minimally invasive procedures where clinically appropriate and covered under the scheme, can help eligible patients receive high-end medical care without the burden of treatment costs.

For Rifaqat, returning safely to physical work as early as possible is particularly important for his livelihood. He was able to walk comfortably within days of the procedure and is now recovering well, with discharge planned shortly.

Sharing his experience, Rifaqat said, “I used to feel breathless and dizzy while walking, especially when I walked fast. I was told that I needed surgery and that both valves would be treated. After the surgery, I am feeling much better and am able to walk without any problem. I am very thankful to Dr. Akhil Rustagi and the entire team at Sharda Hospital for taking care of me and giving me confidence throughout my treatment.”

Two-valve minimally invasive cardiac surgery is technically demanding, particularly in patients with advanced valve disease and pulmonary hypertension. The successful procedure highlights the role of MICS in treating complex cardiac conditions while reducing the surgical access required. Rifaqat is currently stable and recovering well, with appropriate follow-up care planned.

The successful outcome also highlights Sharda Hospital’s expertise in managing complex cardiac conditions through advanced surgical techniques and coordinated multidisciplinary care. Its specialised teams across cardiology, cardiothoracic and vascular surgery, cardiac anaesthesia, critical care and allied departments enable comprehensive management of patients requiring complex cardiac interventions—from detailed pre-operative evaluation and surgical planning to post-operative recovery and follow-up.

Sharda Hospital is a 600-bedded multispecialty hospital in Greater Noida, Delhi-NCR, offering advanced medical care supported by modern technology, state-of-the-art facilities and a multidisciplinary team of specialists. With an 18-year legacy in healthcare and innovation, the hospital provides comprehensive, patient-centric care across multiple specialties. Its focus on advanced treatments, medical expertise and compassionate care enables it to address complex healthcare needs under one roof.