From: Kabanjahe, Medan, North Sumatra
Condition: Mitral Valve Abnormality
Procedure: Percutaneous Transluminal Mitral Commissurotomy (PTMC)
Performed by: Dr. Chen Lean Seng, Consultant Cardiologist
A Hidden Condition Revealed
For years, Novi lived without fully understanding her heart condition. In 2019, during childbirth complicated by eclampsia, doctors discovered that her heart valve did not open properly. Shortness of breath and palpitations followed, but she brushed them aside, believing they were nothing serious.
That changed in April 2025, when Novi suffered a stroke on the left side of her body. She was treated in Penang, where surgery was recommended. However, due to incomplete equipment and long waiting times, she was advised to return to Indonesia.
Finding Northern Heart Hospital Penang
Determined not to delay further, Novi sought alternatives. Through relatives and doctors, she learned about Northern Heart Hospital Penang, known for its complete facilities and readiness to accept patients promptly. She decided to go, hoping for a solution that would restore her health.
At Northern Heart Hospital Penang, she first met Dr. Mugilan Sundarajoo for evaluation, then Dr. Barakath Kareem, who performed a Transoesophageal Echocardiogram (TOE). The results showed that the most suitable treatment was Percutaneous Transvenous Mitral Commissurotomy (PTMC), a minimally invasive procedure using a balloon to open the narrowed valve, avoiding open heart surgery. Significantly, this was the first PTMC case ever performed at Northern Heart Hospital Penang, marking a milestone for the hospital.
Guided by Dr. Chen Lean Seng
Novi was then referred to Dr. Chen Lean Seng, who specialises in PTMC. His explanation was clear and detailed, complete with visuals and a timeline. This helped Novi understand her condition and feel confident about the procedure.
“The medical team was patient, kind, and reassuring,” she recalled. The PTMC went smoothly and painlessly, thanks to its minimally invasive nature.
Recovery and Support
Now in recovery, Novi feels supported by both the hospital environment and the medical team. From initial evaluation to post operation, everything was handled professionally and with heart. Each visit is met with encouraging words from the doctors and staff, giving her strength to continue healing.
A Message of Faith and Family
Novi believes that healing is not only about doctors and technology. “Prayer, effort, and most importantly, family support play a big role. All of it must go hand in hand, strengthening each other,” she said.
Her advice to others is simple: don’t ignore heart problems and don’t delay treatment. With advanced medical technology and facilities like Northern Heart Hospital Penang, solutions are available. But recovery is also about faith, perseverance, and the love of family.
For Novi, being the very first PTMC patient at Northern Heart Hospital Penang was more than a medical milestone, it was a turning point where advanced technology, compassionate care, and family support came together to give her back strength, confidence, and a new rhythm of life.