Overview
The Department of Cardiology at AIIMS Patna, supported by the Terumo India Skill Lab (TISL), organized the inaugural edition of the MASTR KAIZEN (Masterclass in Advanced Stent Techniques and Reconstruction) programme on 8–9 July 2026 at AIIMS Patna. The two‑day national training aimed to equip young cardiologists and super‑specialty trainees with advanced skills in complex coronary interventions through live workshops, didactic lectures, and simulation‑based learning.
Programme Content
The curriculum concentrated on Advanced Bifurcation and Chronic Total Occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) strategies, which are among the most technically demanding areas of interventional cardiology. Participants received hands‑on training in advanced stent techniques, intravascular imaging, procedural planning, and complication management via interactive workshops, expert lectures, case‑based discussions, and simulator‑assisted learning. High‑fidelity simulators replicated challenging coronary anatomies and procedural scenarios, allowing trainees to practice repeatedly, refine decision‑making, and develop responses to potential complications without exposing patients to risk.
Academic Leadership and Guests
The programme was held under the chief patronage of Prof (Brig.) Dr. Raju Agarwal, Executive Director of AIIMS Patna, and chief guest Dr. Bhanu Duggal, Professor of Cardiology and Vice Chancellor of HNB Uttarakhand Medical University. Academic sessions were jointly directed by Dr. Kenichiro Shimoji, an internationally acclaimed interventional cardiologist from Japan, and Dr. Anupam Bhambhani, Head of the Department of Cardiology at AIIMS Patna. Their collaboration reflects a unique academic partnership intended to bring global expertise to Indian cardiologists.
Statements from Organisers
Mr. Shishir Agarwal, President & Managing Director of Terumo India, stated: "Our mission of Contributing to Society through Healthcare is reflected in our commitment to better patient outcomes. We aim to empower the next generation of cardiologists with globally benchmarked procedural skills and support the advancement of high‑quality, patient‑centred cardiovascular care in India." Prof (Brig.) Dr. Raju Agarwal added: "Simulation‑based education is redefining the future of medical training. By enabling young cardiologists to master complex procedures on advanced simulators before entering the catheterisation laboratory, we are enhancing both clinical competence and patient safety." Dr. Anupam Bhambhani, Organising Chairman, explained that the integrated approach of live workshops, didactic lectures, real‑life case examples, and simulation‑based skill development enables participants to first understand scientific principles and procedural nuances, then repeatedly practice on simulators before treating patients, thereby improving safety and outcomes. Dr. Anudeep Sandhu, Director Medical Affairs and Clinical Affairs at Terumo India, emphasized that today’s cardiac stents, imaging systems, and catheter‑based procedures demand procedural familiarity, tactile confidence, and real‑time decision‑making skills, which the programme seeks to instill.
Expected Impact
Through the MASTR KAIZEN programme, the collaboration aims to create a sustainable platform for skill development, international collaboration, and capacity building, ultimately contributing to safer, more precise, and patient‑centred cardiac care in India.