Navigating Crisis: How Ukraine Cardiovascular Center Responded to War

Background: This presentation aims to highlight the extraordinary efforts of the Heart Institute of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine during the Russian–Ukrainian war, with a particular focus on the lessons learned from providing healthcare amidst crisis conditions.

Methods: The Heart Institute, located in Kyiv, Ukraine, is a leading specialized scientific and clinical institution in adult and pediatric cardiology, interventional cardiology, invasive electrophysiology, transplantology, and medical rehabilitation. During peacetime, more than 6,000 cardiac surgeries and minimally invasive procedures are performed annually in its five modern operating rooms and four catheterization laboratories. Of these, around 2,000 are open-heart surgeries. The institute, staffed by highly skilled physicians, nurses, and support personnel, provided cardiac care to patients from war-affected regions.

Results: At the onset of the war, surgical activity decreased, with 581, 137, 392, and 535 surgeries performed in February, March, April, and May of 2022, respectively. During the first year of the war, 228 Ukrainian soldiers received care at the institute, and in the second year, this number increased to 427. Despite challenges such as disrupted medical supply chains, missile strikes, and power outages, the institute continued to deliver critical cardiac care to both civilian and military patients. The medical team showed adaptability and resilience in overcoming these obstacles. In addition to addressing physical health, comprehensive care was provided to support the emotional and psychological well-being of patients and their families.

Conclusion: The experience of the Heart Institute during the Russian–Ukrainian war highlights the critical role of humanitarian medicine in mitigating the impacts of armed conflicts. Investing in medical resources, training, and international collaboration can significantly improve healthcare outcomes in challenging circumstances.

Publication History

Article published online:
11 February 2025