In a groundbreaking moment for Indian cardiology, Dr. T.S. Kler, a pioneer in heart rhythm management, successfully implanted India’s first dedicated ventricular pacemaker at the Escorts Heart Institute and Research Centre, New Delhi, marking a critical advancement in the treatment of life-threatening heart rhythm disorders.
This historic procedure, carried out in the late 1980s, was aimed at treating complete heart block and severe bradyarrhythmias, where the heart’s natural electrical signals fail to maintain an adequate rhythm. The pacemaker, implanted directly into the ventricle, ensured that the heart could beat at a regular, life-sustaining pace.
- Doctor: Dr. Tejinder Singh Kler (T.S. Kler), a renowned cardiologist and electrophysiologist.
- Institution: Escorts Heart Institute & Research Centre (now part of Fortis Escorts), New Delhi.
- Procedure: Implantation of a ventricular (single-chamber) pacemaker in a patient with symptomatic complete heart block.
- Impact: Saved lives by offering a permanent solution to slow or failed heart conduction, especially in patients who previously relied on temporary pacing.Dr. Kler’s Vision:
Dr. T.S. Kler was not only the first in India to introduce this level of advanced pacemaker therapy, but he also played a pivotal role in popularizing cardiac electrophysiology across the country. He later established the first dedicated Electrophysiology Department in India and was among the first to perform 3D mapping-guided ablation procedures for arrhythmias.
“The goal was to give Indian patients access to world-class cardiac rhythm care without having to go abroad,” Dr. Kler stated in a retrospective interview.
- Paved the way for further developments like dual-chamber pacemakers, ICDs, and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT).
- Helped position Escorts Heart Institute as a national leader in heart rhythm management.
- Inspired the training of a new generation of electrophysiologists across India.
