Picture 16 in the Iran series.

Composition 2

Thanks to my brother and his connections, I had the exclusive privilege to document (in HD video) a highly significant surgery at the Day General Hospital in Tehran. Some of the best Dr.’s Iran has to offer were installing an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) in the heart of a patient. The ICD, connected to leads positioned inside the heart or on its surface, is used to deliver electrical shocks, sense the cardiac rhythm and sometimes pace the heart, as required. Basically, when the heart rhythm is off-tune, this highly sophisticated device shocks the heart to restore the normal rhythm. They are also used to prevent sudden death in high-risk patients.

The experience of being in the operating room, and standing next to the surgeon while this intricate operation was being performed, was absolutely sensational. While previously I had always assumed standing in an operating room would be tumultuous, the reality was far more relaxed. The Dr.’s nonchalance and professionalism made the ordeal seem like a brisk walk in the park. Despite the blood dripping, exposed beating heart, and risks associated with the operation, I managed not to faint!

I wish I could say the same about tomorrow’s image...

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