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First-ever Human Heart Valve and Tissue Bank opened at LRH
View(s):The first-ever Human Heart Valve and Tissue Bank was opened at the Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children last afternoon.
Pointing out that this project epitomised how people not only in Sri Lanka but across the world can work together to make a significant change, Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist Dr. Duminda Samarasinghe said the Heart Valve and Tissue Bank will help bring about a better outcome for children who undergo certain heart operations.
Dr. Duminda Samarasinghe addressing the gathering after the opening of the Heart Valve and Tissue Bank
The Heart Valve and Tissue Bank has been set up at a cost of Rs. 70 million. “Sometimes a baby may be born either without a pulmonary valve or a non-functioning pulmonary valve,” said Dr. Samarasinghe, citing an example when they would have to use an imported artificial conduit. Explaining that there would be no guarantee that these artificial conduits would be of the best quality, he said that they would also be very expensive. However, the Heart Valve and Tissue Bank will help us overcome this challenge.
“Tissues from cadavers which are needed for heart operations including valve repair could be stored in the bank. When considering longevity and the risk of rejection, such tissue is the best. Then we will not need commercially-available ones,” said Dr. Samarasinghe. Gifted by the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International, the Heart Valve and Tissue Bank Project had been coordinated by the Rotary Club of Colombo Fort. Funds for the construction of the building were from the Health Ministry.
Health Minister Dr. Rajitha Senaratne unveils the plaque, declaring open the Heart Valve and Tissue Bank. Pix by Indika Handuwala