Dr. KM Cherian, an established cardiac surgeon and the surgeon behind India’s first heart bypass in 1975, passed away on Saturday at the age of 82. Renowned for his expertise in performing complex heart surgeries, particularly on newborns and children, Dr. Cherian also made advanced medical care accessible through the institutions he established.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, acknowledging Dr. Cherian’s monumental contributions to cardiology, his mentorship of future doctors, and his emphasis on technological innovation. Born in Kerala, Dr. Cherian completed his schooling in Chengannur and studied medicine at Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore. He began his career as a lecturer at Christian Medical College, Vellore, before undergoing advanced training in Australia and the United States, including at the University of Alabama, a leading centre for cardiac surgery.
Dr. Cherian founded Frontier Lifeline Hospital in Chennai, a 100-bed cardiac care facility treating patients from India and 21 other countries. He also established the Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences in Kerala, which offers specialised cardiac, neuro, and gastro care.
A global figure in his field, Dr. Cherian was instrumental in performing surgeries for Iraqi children in need, an effort that indirectly helped secure the release of Indian hostages in Iraq. His achievements were internationally recognised, including having his name engraved on a stone at Greece’s Kos Island, the birthplace of Hippocrates. Dr. Cherian served as honorary surgeon to the President of India from 1990 to 1993 and received the Padma Shri award in 1991.
His legacy, both as a skilled surgeon and as an innovator in healthcare, will continue to inspire generations.
Irish Samachar English News
{OR} Kindly click to follow the Irish Samachar News channel on WhatsApp