RIP Dr Cherian: Pioneer of Cardiac Surgery in India No More
Dr. K M Cherian
Chennai: Dr. K M Cherian, the renowned Indian heart surgeon known for his pioneering contributions to cardiac surgery, passed away on Saturday night at the age of 82. Dr. Cherian was instrumental in revolutionizing heart care in India and is best remembered for performing the country’s first successful coronary artery bypass surgery in 1975. His innovative contributions to medicine have saved countless lives.
Dr K M Cherian, originally from Kerala, completed his schooling in Alappuzha’s Chengannur, where the renowned Dr KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences now stands. This institute offers advanced cardiac, neuro, and gastro surgeries, among other specialized services. He pursued his medical studies at Kasturba Medical College in Mangalore, before beginning his career as a lecturer at Christian Medical College in Vellore. Notably, Dr. Cherian was one of the first Indian cardiac surgeons to travel abroad for further specialization, moving to Australia as a senior registrar, a role for doctors undergoing intensive, advanced training. His pursuit of excellence led him to the University of Alabama, widely regarded as the Mecca of cardiac surgery.
Dr. Cherian initially served at the Railway Hospital in Chennai before establishing himself in several prominent private hospitals, including Vijaya Hospital and Madras Medical Mission. His groundbreaking work led to the founding of Frontier Lifeline and the Dr. Cherian Heart Foundation
Cherian’s career was marked by a series of groundbreaking achievements. In addition to his role in India’s first coronary artery bypass surgery, he is credited with performing India’s first heart transplant following the legalization of brain death, as well as the country’s first heart-lung transplant and pediatric heart transplant.
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Speaking to TNIE, his daughter Sandhya Cherian said he collapsed at a wedding in Bengaluru. He was rushed to a hospital but died on the way, she said. His mortal remains were brought to Chennai from Bengaluru on Sunday.
Dr Cherian was a close associate of the legendary South African heart surgeon Christiaan Barnard, known for performing the first human-to-human heart transplant. Between 1990 and 1993, Dr. Cherian served as the honorary surgeon to the President of India.
According to the Indian Express, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Pained by the passing of Dr. KM Cherian, one of the most distinguished doctors of our country. His contribution to cardiology will always be monumental, not only saving many lives but also mentoring doctors of the future. His emphasis on technology and innovation always stood out. My thoughts are with his family and friends in this hour of grief.”
CM MK Stalin expressed deep sadness over the passing of Dr. KM Cherian, Chairman and CEO of Frontier Lifeline Hospital, a globally renowned name in cardiac surgery. He stated that Dr. Cherian's contributions will continue to inspire excellence in medicine.
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Dr Cherian was awarded Padma Shri by the Government of India in 1991 and was an honorary surgeon to the President of India from 1990 to 1993. In June 2000, Cherian received a lifetime achievement award from Kasturba Medical College for contributions made to the field of cardiothoracic surgery in India.
He received a Harvard Medical Excellence Award in 2005, through a panel organised by Harvard Medical School.
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