Johor bahru: The Johor Specialist Hospital (JSH), under KPJ Healthcare Berhad (KPJ Healthcare), has successfully performed a Complex High-Risk Indicated Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (CHIP PCI) procedure using Intravascular Lithotripsy (IVL) technology, strengthening its capability to manage complex coronary artery disease.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, KPJ Healthcare stated that the procedure was performed at the hospital's Heart and Lung Excellence Centre and involved the treatment of severe coronary artery disease with extensive calcium build-up. CHIP PCI cases are among the most technically demanding coronary procedures, typically involving patients with complex heart conditions and requiring advanced expertise, specialised technology, and careful clinical judgement.
IVL technology uses controlled sonic pressure waves to break down hardened calcium within the coronary arteries, allowing doctors to treat complex blockages more safely and precisely before placing a stent. This reduces the need for more aggressive techniques, particularly in patients with complex anatomy or previous stent placement, as noted in a statement from the hospital.
The procedure was led by JSH consultant cardiologist Dr Mohd Shahrom Ujang, with structured proctorship support from Tawakkal Specialist Hospital consultant interventional cardiologist Dr Zul Hilmi Yaakob. This consultant-level collaboration reflects the application of KPJ's Academic Health System approach in practice, integrating clinical governance, mentoring, and knowledge transfer to support patient safety while building sustainable local expertise.
Dr Mohd Shahrom emphasized that the delivery of complex coronary interventions, such as CHIP PCI, requires strong clinical oversight and team readiness. Through the Heart and Lung Excellence Centre, patients are able to access high-complexity cardiac care closer to home while maintaining clear standards of safety and clinical quality.
Meanwhile, KPJ Healthcare president and managing director Chin Keat Chyuan highlighted that the milestone reflects how the KPJ Health System is translating intent into real clinical capability. He stated that this case demonstrates the strengthening of specialist expertise within hospitals while keeping patient safety at the centre of care, through structured proctorship, clinical governance, and shared standards.
The Heart and Lung Excellence Centre at JSH was launched in December 2025 to support consistent standards of care, clinical governance, education, and research, while expanding access to advanced cardiac and respiratory treatment within the KPJ network. KPJ Healthcare operates 30 hospitals across Malaysia and four Ambulatory Care Centres, serving about 3.3 million patients annually with 1,491 medical consultants.