​Section of Cardiothoracic Surgery

About us​​

Since its inception in 1994, the Section of Cardiothoracic Surgery has undergone remarkable advancement as evident by the surge in both the volume of procedures conducted and the escalating complexity of cases handled. This remarkable trajectory can be attributed to the visionary strategies implemented by the exceptional faculty members, each contributing their diverse expertise. Representing as a pivotal division within the Department of Surgery, the section attained accreditation for a CPSP Fellowship, a milestone that later evolved into the esteemed Residency Training Program in Cardiac Surgery.

​Section Head Message

Aga Khan University Hospital is a leading provider of advanced cardiothoracic surgery services spearheaded by a team of globally acclaimed surgeons who specialize in the most intricate open heart and thoracic surgeries. Our state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technologies enable us to perform a comprehensive range of cardiac and thoracic procedures, from coronary artery bypasses and valve replacements to aortic surgeries, congenital heart procedures, and surgeries for  lungs, chest walls, and mediastinum.

We specialize in minimally invasive surgeries, ensuring unmatched precision and safety. Our team places great emphasis on delivering personalized, compassionate care and collaborating closely with our patients.

 Our commitment to excellence and patient satisfaction is the cornerstone of our practice.

Dr Syed Shahabuddin, Associate Professor and Section Head,

Cardiothoracic Surgery​

​Undergraduate Medical Education

MBBS

The section trains 3rd-year, 4th-year, and 5th-year MBBS students as elective and selective candidates. Selective students​ exclusively come from AKU, while elective students can be from within or outside AKU. The rotation spans two to four weeks, during which students actively engage in academic and research activities. They are supervised by dedicated faculty members who oversee their tasks, monitor progress, and provide feedback at mid-rotation and end-of-rotation stages. At the conclusion of the rotation, students share their experiences and project findings in a core session.​

Postgraduate Medical Education

Internship programme​

As an essential requirement after completing an MBBS undergraduate programme, the section offers a three-month internship programme. In addition to exposure to operation theatres, internship candidates are trained in CVS medicines, concepts, critical perioperative patient management skills in the ward, step down, and in a dedicated cardiac intensive care unit. Our interns are required to present at least one presentation during their rotation on the assigned task. 

Residency programme​

The Cardiac Surgery residency program, fully accredited by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Pakistan (CPSP), aims to deliver a thorough clinical education experience essential for achieving a high level of competency in cardiac surgery. This program is structured into two tiers: a four-year pathway directly leading trainees towards PGME graduation and FCPS in Cardiac Surgery, and a six-year option involving initial two years in foundational surgical training across various subspecialties to fulfill Intermediate Module requirements before rejoining the four-year program.

The programme is designed to offer residents a holistic learning atmosphere combining clinical exposure and didactic approaches. Throughout the training, residents undergo three fundamental rotations covering adult cardiac, pediatric cardiothoracic, and general thoracic surgery. Each rotation is supported by a dedicated faculty member who guides and assesses residents' progress through formative evaluations.  Cases are always available to enhance and refine a candidates' cognitive and psychometric skills within a strong ethical framework, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience.

Learn more about the residency programme.​​

Research

The Cardiothoracic surgery research team has firmly established itself as a leading authority in the field of cardiovacular research, with over 4000 papers published in peer-reviewed journals and recognition received globally. 

​The team's groundbreaking invention of the "Pumping heart Stimulator," which recetly received a US Patent, has immense potential to revolutionise medical education.The simulator enables​ trainees to safely and confidently practice complex surgical procedures in a controlled environment. Additionally, the team's development of a Cardiothoracic database spanning 15 years, the first of it's kind in Pakistan, offers valuable insights into the management of cardiovascular diseases in the region. This resource has the potential to guide clinical decision- making, improve patient care, and inform future research. 

The team's two books provide a comprehensive overview of their research findings and contribute to the existing knowledge base in the field of cardiovascular surgery.

Overall, the team's accomplishments reflect their unwavering commitment to excellence and passion for advancing medical college, with the potential to transform medical education and improve patient outcomes in the field of surgery.