Ernest du Preez, an octogenarian from Blaauwberg, Cape Town, is defying age with a zest for life that leaves people decades younger in awe. "At 81, my dad could put many 50-year-olds to shame," his daughter, Simoné du Toit, proudly shares.
A shocking diagnosis
Yet, this vibrant spirit faced a formidable challenge just months ago when doctors discovered a life-threatening tumour on his pulmonary valve, which almost obstructed blood flow from his heart to his lungs. The diagnosis led to Africa's first minimally invasive cardiac tumour resection using state-of-the-art 3D cameras and keyhole heart surgery instruments. This groundbreaking procedure at Netcare Blaauwberg Hospital saved Ernest du Preez’s life and set a new benchmark for cardiac care across the continent.
| Celebrating the cherished moment of his first grandchild’s wedding at 81 years young, Ernest du Preez from Blaauwberg in the Cape defies the odds as Africa's first recipient of a minimally invasive cardiac tumour resection. |
| Happy in his garden, 81-year-old Ernest du Preez is enjoying a full and happy life after undergoing Africa's first minimally invasive cardiac tumour removal. |
Simoné vividly recalls the shock of discovering her father’s tumour during a routine check-up. "We had no inkling it was there. Though benign, it held the dangerous potential to completely obstruct blood flow, dislodge, form blood clots and cause serious health complications. Thankfully, my parents and I are diligent about our check-ups – a healthy habit that may have saved my father's life."
Now, months later, Ernest is thriving, embodying the power of a healthy lifestyle and modern medicine. With regular Pilates sessions, he is the picture of health and a testament to the lifesaving impact of early detection and the importance of routine health screenings.
"I am heartened to have been part of this groundbreaking achievement," shares Mr Du Preez. "When Cardiologist Dr Annari van Rensburg detected an abnormality, she referred me to Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Dr Johan van der Merwe, who explained the procedure in layman's terms and made me feel confident that I was in expert hands.
“I believe divine intervention played a role in my journey, and I am overjoyed with the outcome, thanks to the dedication of all the medical professionals involved. I also want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the nursing staff at Netcare Blaauwberg Hospital for their exceptional support and care during my brief stay in the ICU."
Innovative techniques in cardiac surgery
“Mr Du Preez’s condition is as rare as it was perilous, threatening his life and wellbeing. At his age, the risks associated with traditional open-heart surgery were significant, and we elected to offer Mr Du Preez the option of a far less invasive approach,” recalls Dr Van der Merwe.
A pioneer in robotic and keyhole cardiothoracic surgery in South Africa, Dr Van der Merwe specialises in treating heart and lung diseases without opening the chest or the need to split the breastbone, thereby avoiding many of the risks associated with traditional open surgical approaches. He has the distinction of performing Africa’s first robotic heart and lung surgery and is the first African to become a fellow of the European Board of Cardiothoracic Surgery. He also holds an international PhD in keyhole mitral and tricuspid heart valve surgery.
A groundbreaking achievement
Equipped with cutting-edge 3D video and camera technology, Dr Van der Merwe and his team at the Keyhole Thorax Centre at Netcare Blaauwberg Hospital in Cape Town performed Africa's first minimally invasive cardiac tumour resection in 3D on Mr Du Preez through an incision measuring a mere 5cm. The procedure marked a groundbreaking achievement in African medical history.
Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a revolutionary approach that minimises the need for extensive incisions. Surgeons like Dr Van der Merwe leverage MIS techniques and technology to reduce physical trauma during procedures, leading to less pain, fewer complications and quicker recovery times. These advancements have made minimally invasive surgery a preferred option for many procedures today.
Dr Van der Merwe explains that a tumour on the pulmonary valve can severely obstruct blood flow, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue. “The condition can potentially result in right-sided heart failure, especially in an already vulnerable 80-year-old patient like Mr Du Preez. The combination of impaired cardiac and lung function, alongside increased surgical risk, impacted Mr Du Preez’s quality of life, which is why careful medical intervention was so essential.”
Looking to the future
"Primary tumours of the pulmonary valve are incredibly rare, making each case a unique challenge and an opportunity for innovation. Performing Africa's first minimally invasive resection of such a tumour demonstrates what is possible with the advancements in cardiac surgery and the potential of minimally invasive techniques to transform patient outcomes in South Africa,” he adds.
Remarkably, within just two weeks, Mr Du Preez returned to his everyday life, underscoring the procedure's efficacy and precision. His journey is a story of medical innovation and a testament to the profound personal impact these advancements can have.
"Our mission is to push the boundaries of what is possible in cardiothoracic surgery for the benefit of our patients. Mr Du Preez’s procedure not only underscores the rarity of pulmonary valve tumours but also highlights the revolutionary impact of robotic and minimally invasive techniques in treating complex heart conditions within a team context, without the need for traditional open-heart surgery," adds Dr Van der Merwe.
Alan Abrahams, acting regional manager of Netcare’s Coastal Region, notes, “This pioneering procedure has broader implications for the medical community in Africa and beyond. It inspires further innovation in the healthcare sector and showcases what is possible with advanced technology and highly specialised expertise. For patients with similar conditions, it offers hope and a new standard of care.”
A daughter’s gratitude
Reflecting on her father's journey, Simoné says, "We were understandably worried when we learned about the tumour, given my father's age and the complexities involved. But thanks to Dr Van der Merwe and his pioneering team at Netcare Blaauwberg Hospital, my dad survived and is thriving. This procedure gave him a new lease on life, and we couldn't be more grateful for the care and innovation that made it possible."
Ends.
Notes to editors
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