The Department of Cardiovascular Technology at Manipal Hospitals Bengaluru, located on Old Airport Road, was established in 2020. The department has been set up with the aim of providing advanced education and training in the field of cardiovascular care, particularly for students aspiring to become specialized healthcare professionals in the areas of echocardiography and cardiac interventions. With a commitment to academic excellence, the department offers postgraduate (PG) programs in Cardiovascular Technology, which integrate theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to handle advanced cardiovascular diagnostic and therapeutic technologies.

Program Description

The Cardiovascular Technology PG program at Manipal Hospitals Bengaluru offers two specialized postgraduate courses designed to equip students with the necessary skills to excel in the cardiovascular healthcare industry:

1. MSc in Echocardiography (ECHO): This specialization focuses on training students in the non-invasive assessment of heart function through ultrasound technology, using advanced techniques to detect cardiac abnormalities such as valve diseases, congenital heart defects, and heart failure, etc., also focusing on training with advance technologies like 3D, TEE, DSE and Strain analysis in echo.
2. MSc in Cardiac Catheterization and Interventional Technology (CCIT): This program trains students to assist/operate advanced imaging and diagnostic technological types of equipment, such as cardiac catheterization laboratory, IVUS, OCT, FFR/RFR, ROTA/IVL etc., also Students learn how to assist in procedures like coronary angiography, angioplasty, other key interventions in treating various cardiovascular disease including valve diseases, congenital heart defects, and heart failure etc.

Both programs aim to develop professionals who are proficient in performing diagnostic tests, interpreting results, and assisting in cardiac procedures to enhance patient care.

Key Features of the Program

• Cutting-edge Curriculum: The programs are designed with the latest advancements in cardiovascular technology, covering both theoretical knowledge and hands-on training with outcome-based curriculum.
• Clinical Exposure: Students receive extensive exposure to clinical settings through practical training at Manipal Hospitals, one of the leading healthcare providers in the region.
• Expert Faculty: The program is taught by experienced professionals, ensuring that students benefit from high-quality education, who are up to date with teaching and training skills
• State-of-the-art Facilities: Students have access to modern laboratories and diagnostic tools used in echocardiography and interventional cardiology.
• Research Opportunities: Students are encouraged to participate in research projects, contributing to the advancement of cardiovascular healthcare in terms of mandatory dissertation as a part of the program       

Core Competencies of the Department

The Cardiovascular Technology Department aims to develop the following competencies in its students:

1. Advanced Diagnostic Skills: Proficiency in performing echocardiographic exams, understanding electrocardiograms (ECG), and other diagnostic tests.
2. Interventional Expertise: Ability to assist in cardiac catheterization and other interventional procedures, with knowledge of modern cardiac devices and equipment.
3. Patient-Centered Care: Emphasis on ethical practices, patient communication, and understanding patient history to make informed diagnostic and therapeutic decisions.
4. Technological Proficiency: In-depth understanding of the latest cardiovascular technologies and their application in clinical practice.
5. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Ability to interpret complex diagnostic data and assist in planning and executing appropriate interventions.

Collaborations

The Cardiovascular Technology Department at Manipal Hospitals Bengaluru is a constituent unit of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), offering integrated academic programs. Additionally, the department works closely with industry leaders in cardiovascular healthcare to ensure that the curriculum aligns with the latest technological advancements and clinical practices. This collaboration provides students with access to workshops, guest lectures, and training in real-world healthcare settings.

List of Faculty Members with Designation

The Cardiovascular Technology Department is supported by a team of highly qualified and experienced faculty members

1. Dr. Ranjan Shetty, MD, DM Professor and Head, Dept. of Cardiology(Adjunct Faculty)
2. Dr. Chakrapani, MD, DM Professor, Dept. of Cardiology (Adjunct Faculty)
3. Ms. Rekha V, (PhD) Assistant Professor – Selection Grade Dept. of CVT

Facilities/Labs Available for Academic Teaching and Training

The department provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and labs for practical training:

• Echocardiography Lab: Equipped with the latest diagnostic machines (7 in number), including advanced ultrasound and echocardiography equipment for hands-on training.
• Cath Lab: A fully equipped Cardiac Catheterization Lab (4 in number) where students learn cardiology interventional procedures under real-time guidance.

These facilities ensure that students are not only prepared academically but are also ready to enter the workforce with hands-on experience in the latest cardiovascular technologies.

In conclusion, the Cardiovascular Technology PG programs at Manipal Hospitals Bengaluru offer a comprehensive, world-class education that prepares students for rewarding careers in cardiovascular diagnostics and interventions. With cutting-edge facilities, a robust curriculum, and strong clinical exposure, graduates are well-equipped to become leaders in the field of cardiovascular technology.