Medanta develops AI-enabled Penumbra Lightning technology, successfully treats 25 pulmonary embolism patients

Gurugram: Medanta, a global healthcare leader, proudly introduces the Penumbra Lightning 12 F Catheter - an AI-driven device revolutionising selective clot removal in endovascular procedures. 

As the first hospital in India to adopt this technology, Medanta has successfully treated 25 cases of pulmonary embolism since July 2023. Powered by AI, this ground-breaking technology minimizes blood loss, reducing complications, such as anaemia, in addition to expediting patient recovery.

The first patient was a 62-year-old man with severe deep vein thrombosis (clots in his left leg) and a non-obstructive clot in his left lung lobe. He arrived at the emergency room with sudden leg pain and swelling. Using the Penumbra Lightning 12 F catheter, the clots were removed. This approach navigated complex veins and provided immediate relief from pain and swelling. The patient was discharged within 2 days with follow-up treatment instructions.

Dr. Naresh Trehan, Chairman and Managing Director, Medanta, expressed, “The introduction of this technology signifies a remarkable advancement in aiding individuals afflicted with pulmonary embolism, enabling faster recovery and improved outcomes. In our endeavour to improve awareness surrounding this critical condition, Medanta has piloted the PEiRT (Pulmonary Embolism Interventions and Response Team) programme.

This programme is dedicated to raising awareness about reducing the incidence of pulmonary embolism in India, the available treatment options, and enhancing health outcomes. The PEiRT programme is helmed by a specialised team comprising critical care experts, vascular and cardiac surgeons, cardiologists, haematologists, respiratory physicians, and general practitioners.”

Commenting on the condition and the technology, Dr Rajiv Parakh, Chairman, Peripheral Vascular and Endovascular Sciences, Medanta Gurugram said, “Prolonged periods of inactivity, such as extended sitting, smoking, use of oral contraceptive pills and a sedentary lifestyle, pose a significant risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which forms in the legs. If these clots move to the lungs, they can quickly escalate into a life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism (PE). While some clots remain asymptomatic, larger ones may manifest symptoms of a heart attack, such as breathlessness and chest pain.

They can also become life-threatening, leading to a lung attack, causing severe breathing distress or even sudden death. It must be noted that PEs can occur in both youngsters and adults.

Innovative technologies such as Penumbra Lightning, which incorporates AI for selective clot extraction, represents a significant leap forward in saving lives. Unlike other procedures that may result in considerable blood loss and longer recovery, Penumbra Lightning minimises such risks. It ensures quicker rehabilitation, reduces complications and improves overall recovery time.”

To further promote best practices in pulmonary embolism care, Medanta Gurugram’s Division of Vascular & Endovascular Sciences, organised a conference focused on enhancing the understanding of the new technology and its necessity. The theme of the event was 'Pulmonary Embolism: What is known & what we need to know - State-of-the-art treatment and scientific updates'.