The government dignitary was airlifted from Ethiopia to the hospital for high-risk, urgent coronary angioplasty

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, September 20, 2016:   RAK Hospital has further cemented its position as a leading medical tourism center in the UAE, becoming one of the first options for high-profile dignitaries from other countries. The hospital recently airlifted a prominent Ethiopian dignitary from his home country in a cardiac emergency situation, providing him with timely medical treatment that saved his life. The healthcare institution has gained a reputation as the Cardiac Centre of Excellence and has time and again proved its clinical acumen, courtesy its skilled medical team, breakthrough innovations and unique healthcare facilities. 

Fifty-four-year old Mr K.H., who works for Immigration and Nationality Affairs, Ethiopia, was suffering from severe cardiac discomfort, recurrent chest pain and breathlessness. Despite initial treatment in his home country, his condition worsened, putting his life at a grave risk. His case was immediately referred to RAK Hospital under the care of Dr Ajay Kanojia, the Chief Interventional Cardiologist. The patient was transported from Ethiopia to Ras Al Khaimah via an air ambulance with two doctors on board. At RAK Hospital, his condition was regularly evaluated by a team of cardiologist and after initial stabilisation of his critical condition, Dr Kanojia conducted a high risk, urgent coronary angioplasty with stenting.  

“The patient’s coronary angiography report revealed severe blockages in two important arteries of the heart that led to the heart attack, so we had very little time to do angioplasty with stenting to improve blood flow to the heart muscle. He was mobilized gradually 48 hours after the procedure and felt a remarkable improvement in his symptoms, whereas earlier even lying on bed was causing him chest pain and breathlessness. He was advised about medication, diet and exercise and was discharged in stable condition after five days of hospitalisation,” explained Dr Kanojia, adding, “It was fortunate that he got the right cardiac care at the right time. This also drives home the point that besides understanding heart attack symptoms and reaching out for medical help, we should also not delay intervention, or it could be too late.”

RAK hospital stands tall among its UAE counterparts for its state-of-the-art fully equipped cardiac catheter lab and full electrophysiology set-up, available round the clock. Its cardiology department offers diagnostic procedures and treatment in primary and secondary prevention to minimise possible cardiovascular risk for minor and major events.

Since coronary arteries deliver blood to the heart muscle, any related disorder can have serious implications by reducing the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the heart, which may lead to a heart attack and possibly death. The symptoms of coronary heart disease will depend on the severity of the disease but one will notice heaviness, tightness, pressure, and/or pain in the chest behind the breastbone, arms, shoulders, jaw, neck, and/or back, shortness of breath and fatigue. If too little oxygenated blood reaches the heart, a person will experience chest pain called angina and when the blood supply is completely cut off, the result is a heart attack. Some people may have a heart attack and never recognize the symptoms. This is called a ‘silent’ heart attack.

Dr Raza Siddiqui, CEO Arabian Healthcare Group and Executive Director, RAK Hospital, said: “This case is yet another achievement by RAK Hospital and it reflects our commitment to the highest quality of care for all cardiac patients. We have introduced various medical technologies in the UAE, and are always looking to further raise the standard of healthcare in the country. Additionally, RAK Hospital has recently partnered with Ethiopian Airlines to facilitate specialised treatments and health checks for medical tourists from African countries. All these are small steps to further strengthen the medical tourism in the UAE.”

Thanking the RAK Hospital team, the patient said: “My life was saved due to quick medical help and the use of best facilities by RAK Hospital. I am thankful to the team for their quick and correct diagnosis, complete healthcare and the world-class services.” 

RAK Hospital is also currently running the ‘Golden Hour’ awareness campaign to educate the masses on the importance of immediate medical intervention in heart attack cases.