A shrapnel fragment in the heart and an amputation: a soldier in critical condition has been saved in Kyiv
This has been reported by the M.M. Amosov National Institute of Cardiovascular Surgery.
Volodymyr was transported to Kyiv by ambulance from a hospital in Kharkiv. The soldier’s condition was critical: he had sustained a serious injury on 7 March 2026 during an explosion. In addition to a shrapnel fragment in his heart, the soldier had lost his left leg and suffered numerous shrapnel wounds to his pelvis and limbs.
The situation was made catastrophically worse by a pulmonary embolism. Any operation was a huge risk, but delay meant certain death. The unique procedure was led by the Centre’s director, Academician Vasyl Lazoryshynets. Thanks to the team’s expertise, the shrapnel was successfully removed, giving Volodymyr a chance at life and rehabilitation.
The medical front at the Amosov Institute:
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Key hub: from the start of the war, the facility became the main centre for treating soldiers with the most severe chest injuries.
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Unique technologies: surgeons have implemented protocols for removing metal fragments using special magnets, which minimises trauma.
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Operating 24/7: doctors not only perform operations in the capital but also provide ongoing consultations to colleagues in frontline hospitals, saving lives during the evacuation process.
