‘Guardian of heart’: Cardiologist credited with introducing 2D Echo test in India dies at 84

Renowned Indian cardiologist Dr G Vijayaraghavan, who introduced the 2D Echo test in India, passed away at 84 in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday. A Padma Shri awardee, Dr Vijayaraghavan conducted pioneering research on tropical endomyocardial fibrosis, a condition common in southern India. He also established the first 2D echocardiography laboratory at Government Medical College in Thiruvananthapuram in the late 70s.

Collaborating with an India-US venture, he facilitated the introduction of the 2D echocardiography scanner, which transformed heart care in India. In addition to being a clinician, Dr Vijayaraghavan was a mentor to new generations of cardiologists, training doctors in emerging cardiac imaging technology and expanding its adoption in India.

He had also pioneered treatment for Cerebra Odollum poisoning, which was a common method of suicide in Kerala. After graduating from Government Medical College in Thiruvananthapuram in 1964, Dr Vijayaraghavan worked at CMC Vellore before returning to his alma mater in 1976. He conducted extensive research on endomyocardial fibrosis and other cardiac conditions at Royal Brompton and Harefield Education in London.

He later moved to the University of California to develop doppler echocardiography and published numerous research papers internationally. Dr Vijayaraghavan received several accolades, including the Golden Heart Fellowship of the American Heart Association and lifetime achievement honors from several medical organizations. As a founder of KIMS Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram, he left a lasting impact on Kerala's healthcare sector.

The Chief Minister, Health Minister, and Leader of the Opposition in Kerala's Assembly all paid tribute to Dr Vijayaraghavan's contributions and expressed condolences to his family and colleagues.