Kavitha, aged 44, hailing from Theni, is a mother of two daughters. She had been suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and severe lung issues, which eventually led to a high risk of both lung and heart failure. For the past two years, she was completely bedridden and dependent on oxygen support for survival.

About six months ago, she was admitted to Rela Hospital, Chromepet. Medical investigations revealed that she was suffering from restrictive lung disease, where the lungs had turned fibrotic and stiff. This severely impaired her breathing and had also begun to affect her heart function.

🫁 Life-Saving Double Lung Transplant

A double lung transplant surgery was successfully performed on her, helping her avoid the need for a heart transplant, which otherwise would have been the only option left.

Performing a simultaneous transplant of both lungs is considered a major event in the field of cardiothoracic surgery. The entire surgery lasted 8 hours, and it was carried out successfully by a 30-member medical team led by:

• Dr. Srinath Vijayasekharan, Director & Senior Consultant of Heart and Lung Transplant Surgery,

• Dr. Senthil Kumar, Clinical Lead & Senior Consultant of Heart and Lung Transplant Surgery,  

• Dr. Aishwarya Rajkumar, Transplant Pulmonologist at Rela Hospital.

🏥 Recovery and Return to Normal Life

Weeks after the surgery, Kavitha has now returned to a normal lifestyle. She is able to take care of herself and her two daughters. Although she will require lifelong immunosuppressive medication, her recent biopsy results confirm that her transplanted lungs are functioning excellently.

💬 Statement from Dr. Mohamed Rela, Chairman, Rela Hospital

“Successfully performing a double lung transplant is a remarkable achievement. The patient herself had no idea that such life-saving treatment was even possible.
When she came to us, she was in the final stages of lung failure and surgery was the only remaining option.
Many patients suffering from lung diseases are unaware that lung transplant can save lives. We need to spread awareness on this.
We must also promote organ donation, because through it, we are offering a second chance at life to people like Kavitha,” said Dr. Mohamed Rela.

This story stands as a shining example of advanced lung transplant care in India and highlights the importance of timely intervention, awareness, and organ donation.