Life-Saving Double Tissue Valve Replacement Performed at PSH Hospitals

From near despair to renewed hope, advanced cardiac surgery in Fiji saves a patient’s life, providing world-class treatment now in Fiji which no other hospitals can provide.

A patient who once believed overseas surgery was the only option is today celebrating life after a successful double tissue valve replacement performed at Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH Hospitals) in Nadi.

Double valve surgery is described as a surgical procedure where two heart valves are repaired or replaced during the same operation. The heart has four valves—two atrioventricular valves (mitral and tricuspid) and two semilunar valves (aortic and pulmonary).

The patient was first diagnosed with an enlarged heart and damaged aortic and mitral valves — a condition linked to rheumatic fever experienced in childhood.

But a chance encounter changed everything.

“We were devastated and unsure of what to do,” the patient recalled. ‘’Then one evening, while having dinner at a local café, I picked up a newspaper. On the page, I opened a large advertisement about rheumatic heart disease, featuring Dr Sanjeev Khulbey. I couldn’t believe it, it felt like divine intervention,’’ the patient said.

The patient described the entire team as “exceptional, my little angels”, praising their warmth, professionalism, and constant reassurance.

“I wish I had known earlier about PSH Hospitals,” the patient said. “We almost blocked out months of our lives and thought of going overseas but everything I needed was right here in Fiji.”

Within weeks, the patient met with the renowned cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon Dr Sanjeev Khulbey at PSH Hospitals, who offered reassurance and a clear surgical plan.

“Our goal was to not just perform the operation, but also to give the patient confidence and peace of mind throughout the journey,” said Dr Khulbey.

“Double valve replacement is a high-risk procedure, but with careful evaluation and preparation, we achieved an excellent outcome,’’ said Dr Sanjeev Khulbey proudly.

Founder and chief executive officer of PSH Hospitals, Parvish Kumar said;

“This case is a powerful reminder that Fiji has the expertise and facilities for advanced surgeries that many people assume can only be done overseas. Our investment in technology and talent is so that Fijians and our Pacific neighbours can access world-class healthcare without leaving home.”

As the patient continues to recover, they hope their story will encourage others facing serious diagnoses to explore local options before making costly overseas plans.

PSH Hospitals continues to perform complex heart surgeries, changing lives and showing that with the right team and technology, miracles can happen right here at home.

For more information or bookings, email us at booking@psh.com.fj or call us on 892 2241.