A team of physicians at the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District based Klerksdorp/Tshepong Hospital Complex successfully performed a pioneering pacemaker implantation procedure at the newly refurbished Catherisation Laboratory (Cathlab) today.
The procedure, a first of its kind in the province, was conducted on a patient admitted to the Orthopaedic ward with a neck of femur fracture sustained from a fall, rendering him unconscious. Physicians diagnosed the fall as a consequence of a complete heart block, which led to a drastic drop in both blood pressure and heart rate, plummeting to below forty beats per minute (40/pm).

Led by seasoned cardiologists, Dr. Zacharia, the surgical team hailed this milestone as a turning point in the province’s cardiac care landscape.
North West Health MEC, Madoda Sambatha, lauded the hospital’s management for embracing cutting-edge technologies that enhance healthcare outcomes. “The implantation of the latest cardiac pacing technology signifies not only a remarkable advancement in medical capabilities within the province but also underscores the dynamic evolution of medical prowess in our public health institutions,” expressed MEC Sambatha.

The patient, whose physical capabilities were severely compromised, stood to face a diminished quality of life without undergoing the innovative procedure, emphasized MEC Sambatha.
This monumental surgery took place concurrently with ongoing physician training in the newly constructed Cathlab. Further training sessions for physicians to perform Coronary Angiogram and Stent Implantation are slated for mid-April this year.

Thulani Madonsela, CEO of Klerksdorp/Tshepong Hospital Complex, extended gratitude to the collaborative efforts of the entire team involved, including anesthetists, radiographers, an in-house cardiac technologist, theater staff, the Clinical Technology unit, and the technical support team.
“The synergy displayed by the team today underscores the culmination of our province and hospital’s collective endeavors,” remarked Madonsela, reflecting on the significance of this milestone achievement.

The successful implantation of the pacemaker not only signifies a quantum leap in cardiac care capabilities within the North West Province but also symbolizes a beacon of hope for patients grappling with complex cardiac conditions across South Africa. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, the medical community continues to pave the way for enhanced healthcare delivery and improved patient outcomes.
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