Kauvery Kathaigal – 3
The Art of Handholding: Managing rare conditions and restoring hope
Case at a Glance
A young mother with congenital Long QT Syndrome (LQTS) due to Single-gene defect (Channelopathy), recurrent Ventricular Tachycardia (VT), VT storms, Ventricular Fibrillation (V, and troubling “ICD Shocks”)
Intrathoracic Sympathetic Denervation (specifically cardiac sympathetic denervation).
Patient Story
A young mother and technical professional faced a life defined by the volatility of a genetic heart condition. Her ordeal began with frequent syncope (sudden loss of consciousness) and evolved into a massive cardiac arrest. An Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) was installed to prevent sudden cardiac arrest but she suffered from repeated, traumatic episodes of shocks delivered by the ICD to correct VT/VF.
These “shocks” created a cycle of physical exhaustion and constant anxiety, making it difficult to balance the high-energy demands of raising a child with the stresses of a professional career. She sought a solution that would go beyond medical devices to provide true stability for her family life. She hence received Intra Thoracic Cardiac Sympathetic Denervation
Discussion
She received detailed guidance on managing the ICD. She was given a thorough understanding of the disorder by a consultant in cardio genetics which made her feel empowered rather than fearful.
"The heart can be healed by medicines, but the life is restored by the hand-holding of patients through their journeys”
