Ipoh Specialist Hospital, part of KPJ Healthcare Berhad (“KPJ Healthcare”) network of hospitals, marks a significant milestone for the KPJ Health System with the completion of 3,000 open-heart surgeries since 2000, reflecting more than two decades of sustained cardiothoracic capability.
Managing complex cardiac conditions at this scale requires strong clinical support, including specialised teams, a dedicated Cardiac Operating Theatre and a fully equipped Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (“CICU”).
Approximately 80% of the procedures performed were Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (“CABG”) surgeries, with the remaining cases comprising valve replacements and other complex cardiothoracic procedures. Many patients present with multiple medical conditions, requiring coordinated care across specialties and close perioperative management.
The programme is led by Resident Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr Ko Chung Sen, who has managed a total of 3,287 open-heart surgery cases throughout his career, with 3,000 performed at Ipoh Specialist Hospital. This underscores both individual experience and the strength of institutional support required to sustain such a programme over time.
Commenting on the milestone, Chin Keat Chyuan, President and Managing Director of KPJ Healthcare Berhad said, “Reaching 3,000 open-heart surgeries at Ipoh Specialist Hospital demonstrates the depth and consistency of cardiothoracic capability that has been built over time. This is not only a measure of volume, but of the ability to manage complex cases safely within the region. It also reflects how the KPJ Health System supports the delivery of specialist care through shared standards, multidisciplinary collaboration and continuous capability development. It reinforces our commitment to strengthening specialist services closer to the communities we serve, guided by our purpose of Care for Life.”
Dr Ko Chung Sen, Resident Cardiothoracic Surgeon at Ipoh Specialist Hospital said, “This milestone represents the collective effort of the entire team. Each case requires careful planning, precision and close coordination, particularly for patients with complex or high-risk conditions. Our focus remains on delivering safe and consistent care for every patient.”
Dr Luis Chen Shian Liang, Medical Director at Ipoh Specialist Hospital added, “This achievement speaks to both individual expertise and institutional strength. Over the years, we have continued to invest in the facilities, technology and multidisciplinary teams needed to manage cardiothoracic cases effectively within Ipoh.”
The milestone highlights the hospital’s role in expanding access to cardiothoracic care in the northern region, allowing patients to receive treatment closer to home without the need to travel to Kuala Lumpur.
This is supported by sustained efforts to build and maintain the clinical capability, infrastructure and multidisciplinary support required to manage complex cardiac cases safely and consistently over time.
This content is provided by KPJ Healthcare Berhad
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