Bhubaneswar: Dr Satyajit Samal, a cardiac surgeon at Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) Bhubaneswar, was awarded the 2026 Mussallem Congenital Heart Diseases (CHD) Alliance Travel Grant by the renowned American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) Foundation during the 106th AATS Annual Conference held in Chicago from May 1 to 5.
Dr Samal, Consultant in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery (CTVS) at KIMS, is the first cardiothoracic surgeon from Odisha to receive this prestigious recognition from the AATS Foundation.
Dr Samal said it was a matter of immense pride that KIMS Bhubaneswar was officially recognised by AATS in its global database through his selection and participation.
He received mentorship in heart transplantation and other advanced cardiothoracic surgical procedures from some of the world’s leading cardiac surgeons during the conference. He was also interviewed and offered opportunities for advanced training in heart transplantation in the United States.
Dr Samal hoped the exposure and collaborations developed through the AATS platform will play a role in strengthening advanced cardiac care services at KIMS and accelerating preparations for initiating a comprehensive heart transplant programme at the institute.
In February, Dr Samal was selected and honoured by the AATS Foundation during IACTSCON 2026 in Mumbai under the Global Academic Exchange Program conducted jointly by AATS and the Indian Association of Cardiovascular-Thoracic Surgeons (IACTS).
KIIT, KISS and KIMS Founder Dr Achyuta Samanta congratulated Dr Samal and said the honour further reinforces KIMS’ growing reputation for advanced healthcare, clinical excellence and specialised cardiac care.