The tear extended to the artery that supplies blood to the brain. Therefore, it meant that utmost care had to be taken from the time we entered the chest cavity. The chances of perforation were very high, which could have led to instant death.'

Despite the risks involved the surgery had to be carried out, Katariya said, as 'this was Shailesh's only chance'. Doctors had also found that her 'aortic valve was not functioning properly' for which an artificial valve had to be implanted.

Still recuperating and preparing for another corrective surgery, Shailesh said: 'This is incredible for me and my family. I had been declined treatment by some of the leading private and government healthcare facilities in Delhi, due to the complexity of the case and low chances of survival. We had nearly given up all hope. But then I happened to come to Artemis... I now want to get back to my work at the earliest possible.'