Summer Conference 2026 of the Cardiological Society of India (CSI), Kerala Chapter, has begun here, bringing together leading cardiologists, academicians, and healthcare experts to discuss cutting-edge technologies and emerging trends shaping modern cardiac care.

The three-day conference opened with a strong focus on how rapid advances are transforming the diagnosis and treatment of heart diseases.

Inaugurating the event on Friday, CSI Kerala Chapter president Asokan P.K. said cardiology is witnessing rapid transformation with advances in artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted diagnosis, precision imaging, minimally invasive procedures and next-generation cardiac devices redefining patient care.

He said technologies such as drug-coated balloon angioplasty, advanced intravascular imaging techniques, leadless pacemakers and transcatheter valve replacement procedures are changing the way complex heart diseases are diagnosed and treated.

“Cardiology is steadily evolving towards earlier risk detection and preventive care. Modern imaging technologies can now identify vulnerable plaques and hidden heart risks at much earlier stages, while newer procedures allow complex cardiac interventions to be performed with greater precision, smaller incisions and faster recovery,” he said.

Several therapies that were considered experimental a few years ago are now entering mainstream cardiology practice. The conference aims to help clinicians understand how these advances can be adapted safely and effectively for routine patient care, he said.

A major highlight of the inaugural session was the announcement of the CSI–Joy Alukkas Free PPI Scheme. Under the CSR initiative, Joy Alukkas Group has joined hands with CSI Kerala Chapter to provide 30 dual-chamber pacemakers free of cost to financially challenged patients without health insurance coverage.

Each pacemaker, costing nearly ₹2.5 lakh, comes with lifetime warranty, is pressure-tested and MRI compatible.

The conference features scientific sessions, expert lectures, debates and case-based discussions on advanced coronary interventions, drug-coated balloon angioplasty, structural heart disease, electrophysiology, cardiac imaging, microvascular angina, handheld echocardiography, genetic cardiomyopathies and emerging therapies in preventive cardiology and heart failure management.

Awards were presented to 10 cardiologists in recognition of their academic contributions and achievements in cardiovascular medicine. More than 300 cardiologists from across the State are attending the conference.