New Delhi: Advanced imaging, artificial intelligence and robotic technology are increasingly transforming cardiovascular treatment. Adding to this progress, Fortis Escorts, New Delhi, has introduced the ARTIS pheno.vision, an AI-enabled robotic hybrid catheterisation laboratory designed to support complex heart and vascular interventions.
The newly installed facility integrates nine-axis robotic imaging, AI-based image enhancement, advanced 3D visualisation and hybrid operating room capabilities. The system is designed to provide clearer imaging, improve the accuracy of device navigation and allow specialists to perform complex cardiac and endovascular procedures in a single integrated environment.
According to the hospital, the technology has the potential to reduce radiation exposure by up to 55%, while supporting greater precision during image-guided interventions.
Integrated Approach to Complex Cardiovascular Treatment
The hybrid facility brings minimally invasive catheter-based procedures and surgical capabilities together, allowing medical teams to coordinate different treatment approaches without moving patients between separate procedural environments.
This integrated setup is particularly relevant for patients with complicated cardiovascular conditions, including elderly individuals, those with multiple health conditions and patients with challenging anatomical requirements. Depending on clinical needs, specialists can move between interventional procedures and surgery within the same setting.
For appropriately selected patients, image-guided minimally invasive treatments may reduce surgical trauma, limit hospitalisation periods and facilitate recovery. The actual benefits and potential risks depend on the patient’s condition and the nature of the intervention.
Supporting a Wide Range of Advanced Procedures
The ARTIS pheno.vision system is designed to facilitate several complex cardiac and vascular interventions, including:
- Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) and complex aortic reconstruction.
- Transcatheter aortic valve implantation or replacement (TAVI/TAVR).
- Mitral valve procedures, including mitral clipping and transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR).
- Interventions for peripheral vascular disease.
- Combined robotic cardiac surgery and angioplasty.
- Implantation of cardiac devices, including cardiac resynchronisation therapy defibrillators (CRT-Ds) and leadless pacemakers.
The platform’s imaging and robotic capabilities are intended to assist specialists in planning and performing procedures that require detailed anatomical visualisation and precise instrument positioning.
Hospital Leadership Highlights Technological Advancement
Commenting on the introduction, Dr Ashutosh Raghuvanshi, MD and CEO, Fortis Healthcare, said the development reflects the organisation’s commitment to bringing together advanced medical technology and clinical expertise to strengthen access to specialised cardiac treatment in India.
Dr Ashok Seth, Chairman, Cardiac Sciences, Fortis Healthcare, highlighted the potential value of the facility for high-risk patients who may require both catheter-based treatment and surgical intervention. He emphasised that robotic positioning, AI-supported imaging and lower radiation exposure could be particularly beneficial in complex procedures such as TAVI and advanced vascular interventions.
He also stated that Fortis Escorts, New Delhi, is the only corporate hospital to have integrated this technology.
Dr Vikram Aggarwal, Regional Director – Operations, Fortis Healthcare, noted that the facility would enhance the hospital’s capabilities in planning and delivering complicated cardiovascular procedures, offering greater procedural flexibility and the ability to undertake surgery when clinically required.
The introduction of the AI-powered hybrid cath lab marks another step in the adoption of robotics and advanced imaging in cardiovascular medicine. By combining interventional cardiology and surgical capabilities, Fortis Escorts aims to strengthen its infrastructure for treating patients with complex heart and vascular conditions.
(Photo: AI-generated)