The North West province has benefitted from an international partnership, with specialists from India and Wits/Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital teaming up to perform two groundbreaking heart surgeries at the Klerksdorp/Tshepong Hospital Complex.
The Off Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafts (Off Pump CABG) were conducted on 11 and 12 November 2024. Indian specialist Dr. Vettath, with over 5,000 such procedures globally, led the team, assisted by Dr. Taunyane, a native of Jouberton.
“This operation is different because it is done while the heart is still pumping,” said hospital CEO Thulane Madonsela, emphasizing its complexity and innovation.
Health MEC Sello Lehari praised the initiative, calling it a perfect example of how partnerships between public and private stakeholders can transform lives.
This confirms the delivery of quality services, and changes in people’s lives that I referred to upon arrival at the Department. I have expressed my encouragement to work with private sector and external stakeholders and this is the perfect example of how such partnership can bear fruit.
The two patients are stable and recovering, showcasing the successful application of advanced techniques in the province’s public healthcare system.