Happy in his garden, 81-year-old Ernest du Preez, after undergoing a minimally invasive cardiac tumour removal.
Image: SUPPLIED
Blouberg resident Ernest Du Preez, 81, has a new spring in his step after undergoing minimally invasive cardiac tumour removal at Netcare Blaauwberg Hospital.
Just months ago, doctors discovered a life-threatening tumour on his pulmonary valve, which almost obstructed blood flow from his heart to his lungs.
This led to them performing what they refer to as “Africa’s first” minimally invasive cardiac tumour resection, using keyhole heart surgery instruments and 3D cameras.
The pulmonary valve is positioned between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery. It ensures unidirectional blood flow, directing blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation.
Now, months later, Mr Du Preez is thriving.
He is the picture of health with regular Pilates sessions and a testament to the lifesaving impact of early detection and the importance of routine health screenings, said his Cardiologist, Dr Annari van Rensburg.
Mr Du Preez recalls that Dr van Rensburg detected an abnormality, and referred him to Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Dr Johan van der Merwe, who explained the procedure to the patient in layman's terms.
Mr Du Preez said after the explanation, he understood what the procedure entails and gave it a green light.
“I believe divine intervention played a role in my journey, and I am overjoyed with the outcome, thanks to the dedication of all the medical professionals involved. I also want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the nursing staff at Netcare Blaauwberg Hospital for their exceptional support and care during my brief stay in the ICU," he said.
Simoné du Toit, Mr Du Preez’s daughter, vividly recalls the shock of discovering her father’s tumour during a routine check-up.
"We had no inkling it was there. Though benign, it held the dangerous potential to completely obstruct blood flow, dislodge, form blood clots and cause serious health complications. Thankfully, my parents and I are diligent about our check-ups – a healthy habit that may have saved my father's life," she added.
"At 81, my dad could put many 50-year-olds to shame," said Ms du Toit.
Dr Van der Merwe explained that a tumour on the pulmonary valve can severely obstruct blood flow, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue.
“The condition can potentially result in right-sided heart failure, especially in an already vulnerable 80-year-old patient like Mr Du Preez. The combination of impaired cardiac and lung function, alongside increased surgical risk, impacted Mr Du Preez’s quality of life, which is why careful medical intervention was so essential.”
"Remarkably, within just two weeks, Mr Du Preez returned to his everyday life, underscoring the procedure's efficacy and precision. His journey is a story of medical innovation and a testament to the profound personal impact these advancements can have," added Dr Van der Merwe.