India is going to manufacture cheap left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) to stabilize end-stage heart failure patients during the wait time for donor hearts. With a whopping 50,000 patients requiring heart transplants annually but only 200 being transplanted due to the shortage of donor hearts, locally made LVADs can be a lifesaver.
Urgent Need for Local LVADs
It takes about three years to get an average heart transplant in India. During this interval, LVADs act as a mechanical pump to support the heart's functioning. Imported LVADs are priced between ₹70 lakh and ₹1 crore, which is unaffordable for the majority of patients. The surgery cost and post-treatment contribute to an additional burden on the economy.
Producing a domestic LVAD will not only reduce reliance on expensive imports but also reduce the cost of heart transplants. Additionally, the project is expected to boost medical tourism as more foreign patients travel to India for affordable heart treatment.
Government's push for local development
One senior government spokesperson confirmed that negotiations were on to make funds available for the project. The project is likely to be estimated for conducting research and trials at an approximate cost of Rs 100 crore, which could be met by the Department of Science and Technology or from the Anusandhan National Research Foundation set up in 2023.
"The research and testing of the project will need close to Rs 100 crore, and a decision could soon be taken to fund this either through the Department of Science and Technology or through Anusandhan National Research Foundation, set up in 2023.", said a government official.
Strategic roadmap for development
A 2024 NITI Aayog mission report has been submitted to the Department of Science and Technology for the development and commercialization of an indigenously designed 'artificial human heart'. The report recommends:
Setting up a high-level committee for monitoring project advancement, approval of proposals, and timely completion.
Creation of a specialized mission directorate for technical and financial management of the project.
According to NITI Aayog, the manufacturing of LVADs can be accomplished in five years from the date of clearances. Some of the top-notch institutions, including;
IIT Kanpur, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Delhi
Sri Chitra Institute of Medical Sciences and Technology
They are already working on designing low-cost LVADs and total artificial hearts to provide life-saving products for end-stage heart failure patients.
A move towards healthcare self-reliance
The production of Made-in-India LVADs is a leap for India's self-reliance in advanced medical technology. Bringing down costs and increasing access, this venture may revolutionize cardiac care in India, saving thousands of lives every year in the long run.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Muhammad Faisal/MSM)