CATHERINE MUROMBEDZI
HEALTH CORRESPONDENT

In a groundbreaking development, Zimbabwe’s health sector has welcomed an innovative diagnostic tool, the Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory (CATH-LAB). It is a novel state-of-the-art medical tool poised to transform heart disease diagnosis, treatment, and care in the country. This cutting-edge treatment gadget, operated by a team of specialists, is a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s medical landscape. It offers hope to countless individuals suffering from heart conditions.
Housed at the Trauma Centre, in Borrowdale, Harare, the facility is accessible all-year-round, mitigating heart disease severity and improving treatment to cut mortality.
“At the heart of the CATH-LAB is its ability to perform coronary stenting. This is a minimally invasive procedure that saves lives by removing blood clots and inserting stents to keep coronary blood vessels open. Blood clots are the major challenges suffered by stroke patients,” said the Matron.
This revolutionary treatment is a game-changer for Zimbabweans, who previously had to fly ill patients abroad for such procedures. The inconvenience is massive.
The CATH-LAB team, comprising highly skilled Zimbabwean specialists trained in South Africa, brings a new level of expertise to the country’s healthcare system.
It shows commitment to the private public partnership that the government encourages to improve health delivery.
“The team of experts, with advanced training and experience, are equipped to tackle complex heart conditions, providing patients with timely and effective treatment,” said the Matron.
The benefits of the CATH-LAB are numerous.
By providing treatment locally, patients can receive timely interventions, reducing the risk of complications and improving outcomes.
The CATH-LAB also eliminates the need for medical tourism, saving patients and their families time on long flight overhaul and inconvenience for the patient.

The Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory (Cath-Lab) is a cutting-edge medical facility designed for minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat cardiovascular diseases.
State-of-the-art imaging technology: High-resolution digital X-ray systems, intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), and optical coherence tomography (OCT) provide clear and detailed images of blood vessels and heart structure
Advanced patient monitoring systems: Continuous monitoring of vital signs, ECG, and hemodynamic parameters ensures patient safety during procedures.
Ergonomic design: The lab is designed for optimal workflow, reducing radiation exposure and promoting efficient patient care.
High-speed data networks: Rapid data transfer and storage enable seamless image sharing and analysis.
Hybrid Cath-Lab: Combines a traditional Cath lab with a surgical suite, allowing for a seamless transition between minimally invasive and open surgical procedures.
Radiation reduction technologies: Advanced shielding, low-dose imaging protocols, and radiation-absorbing materials minimize radiation exposure.
Large, high-definition display screens: Enable clear visualization of images and data for the medical team.
Advanced hemodynamic monitoring: Continuous monitoring of blood flow, pressure, and oxygen saturation.
Comfortable patient table: Adjustable, ergonomic design ensures patient comfort during procedures.
Sterile environment: Strict infection control measures, including laminar airflow and sterilization protocols.
Integrated audiovisual systems: Enable real-time communication and collaboration among the medical team.
Data analytics and AI integration: Advanced software and AI algorithms aid in image analysis, diagnosis, and treatment planning.

The CATH-LAB represents a significant step forward in Zimbabwe’s efforts to develop its healthcare infrastructure.
By investing in cutting-edge technology and training local specialists, the country is building a more sustainable and self-sufficient healthcare system.
The CATH-LAB’s impact extends beyond individual patients. By reducing the need for medical tourism, Zimbabwe can retain valuable foreign currency and expertise within its borders.
This “reverse medical tourism” effect has far-reaching implications for the country’s economy and healthcare sector as it cuts on brain drain. Specialists are able to put into practice their expertise.

The groundbreaking development in Zimbabwe’s healthcare landscape brings confidence to the patients. With its cutting-edge technology and team of super specialists, this treatment center is poised to revolutionise heart care in the country.
“Our modern Cath-Lab setup enables cardiologists and medical professionals to perform complex procedures with precision, speed, and minimal risk, ultimately improving patient outcomes,” said the Matron
By providing timely, effective, and accessible treatment, the CATH-LAB is saving lives and transforming the lives of countless Zimbabweans, as the country continues to develop its healthcare infrastructure.
The state-of-the-art tools stand as a shining example of what can be achieved through investment, expertise, and determination.
In May, the writer traveled to Goa, India to attend a tuberculosis conference (TB). Witnessing many patients on board was sad.
The long flight, interconnection flights in Bole, and the general distress of traveling took a severe knock on the patients and caregivers. With patients throwing up mid-air and landing, the caregivers were overwhelmed. The writer ended up assisting in carrying their hand luggage.

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