Sahiwal’s Cardiac Care Breakthrough: First Heart Bypass Surgery Completed

In a landmark achievement for regional healthcare, the Sahiwal Institute of Cardiology (SIC) has successfully performed its first coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedure. The patient, Muhammad Zahid, 58, from Ghala Mandi, chose SIC over larger hospitals in Lahore and Multan—placing his trust in the newly operational cardiac facility.

Zahid had suffered two heart attacks earlier this year, and medical tests revealed complete blockage in three major arteries. Doctors recommended immediate bypass surgery, which was carried out over seven hours by a skilled team led by Associate Professor Dr Rehan Shahid. Supporting him were Dr Amir Furqan (anesthesia), Dr Rida Sherazi, Dr Neha, and a dedicated paramedic crew. Zahid’s son confirmed his father is recovering well post-surgery.

This milestone signals a new era for cardiac patients in the Sahiwal Division. With SIC now offering advanced procedures locally, residents no longer need to travel to Lahore, Multan, or Faisalabad for life-saving heart surgeries.

The SIC is a 100-bed facility built with Rs1.5 billion in funding from the Punjab government during the 2022–23 fiscal year. Located within the Sahiwal Teaching Hospital (STH), the institute was designed to serve the growing cardiac needs of the region. However, it faces a critical challenge: an 85% shortage in sanctioned staff positions.

Dr Muhammad Akhter, principal of STH, emphasized that the institute could meet local healthcare demands if fully staffed. The Punjab government has already allocated Rs400 million for the Cath Lab, where the first angiography was performed on September 22. Yet, SIC still requires Rs830 million to maintain smooth operations.

The cardiac operating theatre is equipped with non-modular, state-of-the-art technology, including DSLR systems and essential surgical equipment. Despite this, only 85 of the 536 sanctioned posts have been filled. These include doctors, paramedics, nurses, and administrative staff.

Dr Yadullah, medical superintendent of STH, stressed that the medical community is united in securing the necessary funds. A formal request has been submitted for Rs50 million for janitorial and security services, Rs700 million for medicines and supplies, Rs9 million for IT equipment, and Rs1 million for miscellaneous needs.

Health Secretary Azmat Mahmood assured that the department is committed to providing the operational funds required to sustain SIC’s services.

In a separate event, the Higher Education Department’s Two-Day Athletic Championship concluded at Govt Graduate College, Sahiwal. Over 200 athletes from eight Punjab divisions competed in track and field events. Sahiwal, DG Khan, and Multan secured top positions in the female category, while Faisalabad, Sahiwal, and Gujranwala led the male category.

Together, these developments reflect Sahiwal’s growing prominence in both healthcare and education—setting the stage for a more empowered and healthier future.