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Dr. Robert Coelho

Pediatric Cardiac Surgeon

, Chennai, India

21 Years of experience

Speaks: Tamil , English

 


Dr Robert Coelho is one of the most skillful Cardiac Surgeon in Chennai, India. The doctor holds over 21 years of experience and is associated with The Madras Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do Indian Pediatric Cardiac Surgeons Have Experience with Norwood Surgery?

Yes, absolutely. India is home to some of the most skilled and experienced pediatric cardiac surgeons who regularly perform the Norwood procedure, particularly for newborns with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS). This complex, life-saving surgery is typically the first of a three-stage surgical process to manage HLHS and requires:

  • Advanced expertise in neonatal cardiac surgery
  • Multidisciplinary care from neonatologists, cardiologists, and critical care teams
  • Specialised post-operative care in pediatric cardiac ICUs

Many surgeons in India have received training at prestigious institutions in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia. They are affiliated with international associations such as the STS (Society of Thoracic Surgeons) and EACTS.

Do Indian Hospitals Use Advanced Technology for Norwood Procedures?

Yes. India’s leading pediatric cardiac centres are equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure and technology to support Norwood surgeries. These include:

  • Advanced cardiopulmonary bypass machines for neonates
  • High-resolution 3D echocardiography and cardiac MRI for detailed pre-op planning
  • Dedicated pediatric cardiac intensive care units (PCICUs)
  • Intraoperative neuromonitoring and cooling techniques for brain protection during surgery

Many of these hospitals are NABH or JCI-accredited, ensuring they maintain international standards for safety, sterility, and patient outcomes. MediGence partners only with such globally accredited hospitals.

Do Indian Hospitals Assist International Patients with Norwood Surgery?

Yes. India is a well-established destination for pediatric cardiac care, and international families receive full support. With MediGence, families can expect:

  • Visa invitation letters and embassy coordination
  • Airport transfers and child-safe travel arrangements
  • Assistance with accommodation close to the hospital
  • Dedicated pediatric care coordinators and interpreters
  • Customised treatment planning and budgeting support

MediGence ensures that the entire process is smooth and family-friendly, helping you focus on your child’s care.

Can I Consult a Pediatric Cardiac Surgeon Online Before Travelling to India?

Yes. MediGence enables you to schedule virtual consultations with India’s top pediatric cardiac surgeons before making any travel decisions. During the consultation, you can:

  • Share your child’s diagnostic reports and echocardiograms
  • Understand the surgical plan, risks, and survival rates
  • Get an estimated treatment timeline and cost breakdown
  • Ask about hospital infrastructure, ICU support, and post-op care

MediGence also gives you access to:

  • Doctor profiles and qualifications
  • Patient success stories and parent testimonials
  • Transparent treatment cost packages with no hidden fees
What Education, Credentials, and Experience Do Indian Pediatric Cardiac Surgeons Have?

Indian pediatric cardiac surgeons are globally trained and recognised. They typically:

  • Hold MCh or DNB in Cardiothoracic Surgery, with pediatric specialisation
  • Have completed fellowships in leading heart centres globally
  • Are registered with the Medical Council of India (MCI)
  • Are affiliated with STS, EACTS, IACTS, or the World Society for Pediatric Heart Surgery
  • Have 10–20+ years of experience in neonatal and infant cardiac procedures

MediGence selects only those surgeons and hospitals that meet international standards for surgical excellence.

How Do I Check the Credibility of a Pediatric Heart Surgeon in India?

To verify a surgeon’s credibility:

  • Confirm their qualifications and MCI registration
  • Ensure they are part of an NABH/JCI-accredited hospital
  • Look for international fellowships or board memberships
  • Visit MediGence to explore in-depth profiles, clinical experience, and success rates

This allows you to select a trustworthy and reputable expert for your child’s life-saving surgery.

What Is the Recovery Time After Norwood Stage I Surgery in India?

Recovery after Norwood surgery is intensive and requires specialised care:

  • Hospital stay: 4–6 weeks (depending on the baby’s stability)
  • Post-op ICU care: 10–14 days minimum
  • Continuous oxygen support, cardiac monitoring, and nutrition management
  • Ongoing follow-ups until the next surgical stage (Glenn procedure)

MediGence supports you by:

  • Coordinating follow-up appointments
  • Assisting with home care guidance and feeding plans
  • Organising return travel and second-stage surgery planning
Is the Norwood Procedure a Cure for HLHS?

The Norwood procedure is not a cure, but a critical first step in a three-stage palliative surgery series:

  • Norwood Procedure (at birth)
  • Glenn Shunt Surgery (around 4–6 months)
  • Fontan Procedure (around 2–3 years of age)

Together, these surgeries help the right side of the heart do the work of both ventricles. With modern technology and skilled care:

  • Survival rates have improved significantly, often exceeding 75% at high-volume centres
  • Many children live active lives, though they require lifelong follow-up
  • MediGence ensures continuity of care across all surgical stages.
What Support Services Are Offered to Parents During and After Surgery in India?

Indian hospitals offer comprehensive emotional and logistical support for families:

  • Parent accommodation near ICUs
  • Access to clinical psychologists or counsellors
  • Nutrition and breastfeeding support for mothers
  • Child-life specialists and emotional care programs
  • Social workers to guide insurance and follow-up pathways

MediGence helps families with:

  • Travel flexibility and rescheduling
  • Finding family-friendly lodging
  • Coordinating long-term treatment plans across stages
Why Choose MediGence for Norwood Surgery in India?

MediGence simplifies and supports every step of your journey, offering:

  • Verified pediatric cardiac specialists and JCI/NABH hospitals
  • Pre-travel online consultations and second opinions
  • Transparent, bundled cost packages
  • 24/7 support from a dedicated case manager
  • Guidance through post-op care, subsequent surgeries, and monitoring

With MediGence, you get compassionate, coordinated, and world-class cardiac care for your child, delivered with transparency and trust.