Hyderabad-based pediatric cardiologist Dr Nageswara Rao Koneti has been granted a US patent for his indigenous heart device called the ‘KONAR-MF occluder’. The invention, which already has approvals in India, Europe, South Korea and parts of Africa, is now officially recognised by the US patenting system.
KONAR-MF is a device used to plug holes or defects in the heart, especially in children born with congenital heart diseases. What differentiates Rao’s invention is instead of needing different devices for different types of heart defects, the KONAR-MF works across a wide range, from ventricular septal defects (VSDs) to post-surgical leaks and even rare conditions like arteriovenous fistulas, according to Rainbow Children’s Heart Institute, where Dr Rao leads the Pediatric Cardiology Division.
“Unlike traditional occluders designed for a single-purpose use, the KONAR-MF adjusts dynamically to the shape and flow profile of each defect,” the Hyderabad-based hospital said. The product is designed in such a way that it reduces the risk of complications and improves patient outcomes.
KONAR-MF is being manufactured by Lifetech Scientific company.
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KONAR-MF is being made available in India for just Rs 50,000, much lower than in parts of Europe and Asia where it is priced a few lakhs of rupees. Even in neighbouring Pakistan, it's priced at over Rs 1.2 lakh.
That cost difference is deliberate says Dr Rao who insists that innovation should not be limited by affordability. "This is not just about science, it’s about access," he says.
The device is already in use in over 30 countries, backed by more than 20 international studies. It follows patents previously granted in India, Europe (EC), Euro-African countries and South Korea between 2021 and 2023. With the US patent, the KONAR device is now closer to obtaining US FDA approval, from the hospital. Dr Rao said that the invention reaffirms the fact that products designed in India can meet the highest global standards.