My name is Dr. Ravi Yarlagadda, and I am a cardiologist at Hartford Hospital who specializes in electrophysiology. That means that I mainly treat problems related to the heart's electrical system. Many patients with problems of this kind have been helped by the development of the implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) and cardiac resynchronization devices. The ICD is a tiny, batter-powered mechanism can detect a dangerously irregular heartbeat and jolt it back to normal instantly. The ICD can also "pace" the heart's beating, to insure that it is pumping as efficiently as possible. Resynchronization devices improve heart function by pacing both sides of the heart. These devices are lifesavers for many patients, but such high-tech care is not available everywhere in the world.
 
I come from the town of Vijayawada on India's east coast, an agricultural center that straddles the beautiful Krisha River. It is an area that is rich in traditional arts, cuisine and music, but its 500,000 residents are far from affluent by U.S. standards. Vijayawada is home to two medical schools. Still, costly medical technology is out of the reach of many.
 
In 2006, I went back to my hometown and, with the donation of ICDs from Medtronic Inc. I was able to implant 15 devices. In addition to helping local patients, I trained local cardiologists in the use of basic pacing technology. My parents, who are both doctors and live in Vijayawada, were very proud. (Of course, they'd be happier if I weren't living half a world away!)
 
From March 12 to March 18, with more generous help from Medtronic, I will return to Vijayawada, implant at least 12 devices – ICDs and resynchronization devices -- and train six cardiologists.
 
Every few days during my stay, I'll be writing about my experiences on this page. If the local internet connections allows, I'll also post some photos. I invite you to visit this page during my stay and to share some of my experiences