SSKM Hospital Cardiology Department: Premier Cardiac Care in Kolkata, West Bengal

The Cardiology Department at SSKM Hospital (Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research, IPGME&R) is a leading center for cardiac care in Kolkata. Located at the heart of the city, this department has been serving patients with world-class cardiac diagnostics, treatments, and surgical care. SSKM Hospital is one of the oldest and most prestigious government hospitals in West Bengal, known for its high-quality medical education, research, and patient care. The Cardiology Department is a vital part of this institution, providing specialized care for various heart conditions and diseases.

About SSKM Hospital Cardiology Department

The Cardiology Department at SSKM Hospital is dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of heart conditions. It offers comprehensive cardiac services including non-invasive tests, advanced imaging techniques, interventional cardiology procedures, and cardiothoracic surgery. Patients of all ages, from infants with congenital heart defects to elderly individuals with complex heart conditions, are treated at the department. The team of highly skilled cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and specialized nurses works to ensure the best possible care for each patient.

SSKM Hospital is recognized for its patient-centric approach, combining clinical expertise with compassionate care. The hospital is also equipped with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring that patients receive the most accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.

Key Services and Facilities

The Cardiology Department at SSKM Hospital offers a wide range of services and facilities to cater to patients with various heart conditions. The department is equipped with the latest technology and staffed by experienced cardiologists and cardiac surgeons who are well-versed in handling complex cases.

1. Outpatient and Inpatient Cardiac Care

• Outpatient Department (OPD): The OPD at the Cardiology Department operates on all weekdays, offering consultations and follow-up care for patients with heart conditions. It is staffed by a team of experienced cardiologists, including Prof. S.C. Mandal, Dr. T.K. Patra, Dr. Goutam Dutta, and Dr. Rajarshi Mandal​(IPGME&R-OPD-Schedule). Patients are evaluated for symptoms such as chest pain, breathlessness, palpitations, and fatigue, with appropriate diagnostic tests conducted as needed.
• Inpatient Care: The department provides inpatient services for patients requiring hospital admission for more intensive care. This includes patients with heart attacks, heart failure, or those recovering from cardiac surgery. Dedicated cardiac units ensure close monitoring and specialized care for patients.

2. Advanced Cardiac Diagnostics

The Cardiology Department at SSKM Hospital is equipped with the latest diagnostic technologies to ensure accurate detection of heart conditions. These advanced tools allow for early diagnosis and timely intervention, helping to prevent complications and improve patient outcomes.

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): A routine test that records the electrical activity of the heart and helps detect arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other heart conditions.
• Echocardiography: A non-invasive ultrasound test that visualizes the heart’s structure and function, providing detailed information about heart valves, chambers, and the overall pumping function.
• Stress Test: Also known as a treadmill test or exercise ECG, this test evaluates how well the heart performs under physical stress. It helps in diagnosing coronary artery disease and assessing the effectiveness of treatments.
• Holter Monitoring: A portable device that continuously records the heart’s electrical activity for 24 to 48 hours. This helps diagnose intermittent arrhythmias that may not appear on a routine ECG.

3. Interventional Cardiology

The Interventional Cardiology Unit at SSKM Hospital performs minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat heart diseases. These procedures are often performed using catheter-based techniques, which are less invasive than traditional surgery and allow for faster recovery times.

• Angiography: This imaging technique uses X-rays to visualize the coronary arteries and detect blockages or narrowing that may lead to heart attacks.
• Angioplasty and Stenting: A procedure used to open blocked coronary arteries and restore blood flow to the heart. A stent, which is a small metal tube, is often placed in the artery to keep it open.
• Pacemaker Implantation: A pacemaker is a small device that is implanted under the skin to help regulate abnormal heart rhythms. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with bradycardia (slow heart rate) or heart block.

4. Cardiothoracic Surgery

The Cardiothoracic Surgery Unit at SSKM Hospital is known for its expertise in performing complex heart surgeries. These include surgeries to treat congenital heart defects, heart valve diseases, and coronary artery disease. The department is equipped with modern operation theaters and intensive care units that cater to post-surgical recovery.

• Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): A surgical procedure that improves blood flow to the heart by bypassing blocked coronary arteries with grafts taken from other parts of the body.
• Valve Repair and Replacement: Surgeries to repair or replace damaged heart valves, often using mechanical or tissue valves.
• Congenital Heart Surgery: Surgical treatment for children born with heart defects such as atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect, or Tetralogy of Fallot.

5. Heart Failure Clinic

The Heart Failure Clinic at SSKM Hospital is dedicated to managing patients with chronic heart failure. The clinic provides comprehensive care, including medication management, lifestyle counseling, and monitoring of patients with advanced heart disease. The clinic also evaluates patients for heart transplantation when needed.

6. Pediatric Cardiology

The department offers specialized care for children with congenital and acquired heart conditions. Pediatric cardiologists, including Prof. S.C. Mandal and Dr. Lopamudra Mishra, provide diagnostic services such as fetal echocardiography and interventional treatments for conditions like atrial septal defect and patent ductus arteriosus​(IPGME&R-OPD-Schedule).

7. Electrophysiology and Arrhythmia Management

Electrophysiology is a branch of cardiology that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). The Cardiology Department at SSKM Hospital offers:

• Electrophysiological Studies (EPS): A test that maps the heart’s electrical system to diagnose arrhythmias.
• Radiofrequency Ablation: A minimally invasive procedure used to treat arrhythmias by destroying the heart tissue responsible for abnormal electrical signals.
• Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) Implantation: ICDs are devices implanted in patients at high risk of sudden cardiac death due to ventricular arrhythmias.

8. Respiratory and Lung Function Tests

Patients with heart failure often experience respiratory issues. The Cardiology Department at SSKM Hospital conducts lung function tests to assess respiratory health and provide comprehensive care for patients with combined heart and lung conditions.

9. Cardiac Rehabilitation and Follow-Up Care

Post-treatment and post-surgery, the hospital offers a Cardiac Rehabilitation Program that includes physical therapy, dietary counseling, and emotional support to help patients recover and lead healthier lives. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient’s progress and prevent future complications.

10. 24/7 Emergency Cardiac Care

The Cardiology Department operates an emergency unit that provides round-the-clock care for patients experiencing heart attacks, severe arrhythmias, and other life-threatening cardiac events. The department is well-equipped to handle cardiac emergencies, with facilities for immediate intervention and stabilization.

11. Research and Medical Education

As part of the Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (IPGME&R), the Cardiology Department is also involved in cutting-edge research and medical education. The department conducts clinical trials, publishes research papers, and offers postgraduate training programs for aspiring cardiologists and cardiac surgeons. This focus on research and education ensures that the department remains at the forefront of medical advancements in cardiology.

Why Choose SSKM Hospital Cardiology Department?

The SSKM Hospital Cardiology Department is one of the most reputable centers for cardiac care in Kolkata, offering the following advantages:

• Experienced Specialists: The department is staffed by highly qualified cardiologists and surgeons with extensive experience in handling complex heart conditions.
• Comprehensive Care: From diagnostics and interventional cardiology to open-heart surgery and post-operative care, the department offers end-to-end solutions for heart patients.
• State-of-the-Art Technology: The hospital is equipped with the latest medical technology, including advanced imaging machines, catheterization labs, and modern operating rooms.
• Multidisciplinary Approach: The cardiology team collaborates with other specialties, such as pulmonology, nephrology, and endocrinology, to provide holistic care for patients with multiple health conditions.
• Affordable Care: As a government hospital, SSKM provides high-quality cardiac care at an affordable cost, making it accessible to patients from all socioeconomic backgrounds.

Contact Information

Address: Cardiology Block, IPGME&R and SSKM Hospital, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Rd Flyover, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700020

Phone: 033 2204 1100

Conclusion

The Cardiology Department at SSKM Hospital stands as a beacon of hope for heart patients in Kolkata and beyond. With a dedicated team of specialists, cutting-edge technology, and a patient-first approach, the department provides world-class cardiac care. Whether it’s routine heart monitoring, emergency interventions, or complex surgeries, the Cardiology Department is committed to improving heart health and saving lives.