Dr K M Cherian, Pioneer of Indian Cardiac Surgery, passes away - Video

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.