Pune, 9th October 2024: The cardiac surgical community in Pune is mourning the loss of renowned cardiac surgeon Dr. P. Venugopal, who passed away at the age of 82. Dr. Venugopal, a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, was a pioneer in Indian cardiac surgery and played a crucial role in advancing cardiac care in the country.
Dr. Venugopal’s contributions to medicine were groundbreaking. He founded the Cardiothoracic Sciences Centre at AIIMS, where he conducted India’s first heart transplant and Asia’s first Left Ventricular Assist Device implantation. Alongside Dr. N. Gopinath, he introduced open-heart surgery at AIIMS, establishing the institute as a leading center for cardiac care.
During his career, Dr. Venugopal performed over 50,000 heart surgeries and trained numerous medical professionals in the field of cardiac surgery. His dedication to his patients was unparalleled, often checking on them late at night in the ICU.
In 2023, Dr. Venugopal published his memoir, “Heartfelt: A Cardiac Surgeon’s Pioneering Journey,” providing insight into his life’s work and impact on cardiac care. He also played a crucial role in the passage of the Organ Transplant Bill in 1994, legalizing organ transplants in India.
Dr. Venugopal’s passing is a significant loss to the medical community, with many expressing their condolences and admiration for his contributions. Dr. Manoj Durairaj, President of the Indian Association of Cardiovascular-Thoracic Surgeons, praised Dr. Venugopal as a mentor and leader in the field of cardiac surgery.
Dr. Venugopal’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of cardiac surgeons in India and beyond, shaping the field of cardiac surgery for years to come.
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