At Cross Border Care, our mission is simple: to offer patients the best medical advice and solutions, focusing on ethics, integrity, and personalized care. This heartwarming story highlights our commitment to providing world-class medical consultations and ensuring that patients, especially children, are spared from unnecessary procedures.

The Case: A Six-Year-Old Girl with a ‘Hole in the Heart’

A six-year-old girl from Baghdad, Iraq, was referred to us for heart surgery after being diagnosed with a Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD), commonly known as a “hole in the heart.” Her family had been informed that surgery was essential to address the condition, and they wanted to seek a second opinion from India’s top pediatric cardiologists.

She had already undergone an echocardiogram, and the results suggested VSD surgery. However, knowing the delicate nature of pediatric heart conditions and the emotional toll such decisions take on families, we got a second opinion from one of the top pediatric cardiologists in New Delhi at the Fortis Escorts Heart Institute. 

A Different Perspective: The Power of Second Opinions

Upon reviewing the case, our expert cardiologist, Dr Shusheel Azad  conducted a repeat echocardiogram. To everyone’s relief, the results were startlingly different. The defect, previously measured at 7mm, had spontaneously shrunk to 3mm. More importantly, the child’s clinical condition was improving—she was asymptomatic and thriving.

The second opinion from the Fortis cardiologist was clear:  VSD surgery in India was not required. The hole was small, and the echocardiography in Baghdad had shown an incorrect size. In reality, surgery wasn’t needed for a small hole. Her condition was naturally improving, and the best approach was conservative management—unlike the recommendation from the initial doctor and specialists in Iraq, who had advised immediate surgery.

A Moment of Relief and Gratitude

The family was initially concerned but felt immense relief after understanding that their child did not need surgery. The little girl’s joy and her parents’ gratitude were immeasurable when they learned she could avoid the invasive VSD surgery in Delhi. It was a moment of profound happiness not just for the family but also for our entire team.

Our patient advocate team worked closely with the family to ensure they understood the new course of action, and after a detailed discussion, they unanimously agreed to pursue conservative management. Today, the girl remains healthy, asymptomatic, and happily living in Baghdad, far from any surgical risks.

Our Ethical Commitment: Always Put the Patient First

This case highlights the importance of seeking a second opinion in critical health matters and our unwavering commitment to ethical, patient-first care. At Cross Border Care, we pride ourselves on adhering to strict ethical standards. We never advise unnecessary treatments or surgeries. We always aim to ensure our clients receive the most appropriate, least invasive care possible.

We are driven by a deep sense of responsibility and compassion for our patients, especially children, who may face life-altering decisions. Preventing an unnecessary surgery not only saved the child from potential complications but also gave her and her family the peace of mind they so deserved.

Why Trust Cross-Border Care?

• Ethical Practices: We prioritize the patient’s best interests, offering honest and unbiased medical advice.
• Expert Opinions: We collaborate with India’s leading specialists and hospitals to ensure top-tier care.
• Dedicated Patient Advocacy: Our team ensures clear communication and support at every step, helping patients make informed decisions.
• No Financial Targets: We are not driven by financial incentives, only by the desire to provide the proper care.

At Cross Border Care, we believe that the accurate measure of success lies in the well-being of our patients and the trust they place in us. This case highlights the difference a thoughtful, ethical approach can make in healthcare. We remain committed to helping patients across the globe access the best medical solutions, with a focus on compassion and integrity.

If you or a loved one needs a trusted medical consultant, we are here to guide you through the complexities of healthcare with empathy, expertise, and care.