Dr. Mrithyunjaya Virupaksha Swami Kalmath (also referred to as Dr. Mrithyunjaya V Kalmath or Col. Mrithyunjaya Kalmath) is a highly accomplished cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon specializing in minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS), heart and lung transplants, and advanced aortic surgeries. 13 He currently serves as Lead Consultant in the Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery (CTVS), MICS, and Heart Transplant at Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai, where he joined after a distinguished career in the Indian Armed Forces.

Early Life and Education

Born in India, Dr. Kalmath completed his MBBS from Mahadevappa Rampure Medical College (MRMC), Gulbarga University, in 1999. 30 He pursued his MS in General Surgery at the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune University, graduating in 2008. 3 30 He further earned a DNB in General Surgery from the National Board of Examinations (NBE) in 2011, followed by an MCh in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery from the Sri Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST), Thiruvananthapuram, in 2014. 30 In 2015, he was awarded the Fellowship of the Association of Surgeons of India (FAIS). 30 He is also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FAICS). 9

Professional Experience

Dr. Kalmath has over 25 years of experience, much of it gained during his service in the Indian Armed Forces, where he rose to the rank of Colonel. 1 18 19 He served as Senior Advisor in Surgery and Cardiothoracic Surgery, as well as Head of the Department of CTVS at the Army Hospital Research & Referral in Delhi Cantt. 15 30 In this role, he was classified as a specialist in surgery and cardiovascular & thoracic surgery. 30 After retiring from the military, he transitioned to Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai in late 2024 or early 2025, bringing his expertise in complex cardiac procedures. 1 16 He is also a professor in his field. 16

His practice areas include cardiac surgery (covering coronary disease, electrophysiology/arrhythmia, extracorporeal circulation, heart failure, valve disease, and tricuspid valve disease), congenital heart conditions, thoracic surgery (lung-related), minimally invasive techniques, transplants, great vessels (aorta), critical care, and professional affairs. 30 He treats a wide range of conditions, such as aortic valve disease, coronary artery disease, pericardial effusion, pulmonary hypertension, truncus arteriosus, Kawasaki disease, mediastinal issues, fainting, atrial fibrillation, stroke, myocarditis, pericarditis, sick sinus syndrome, angina, tetralogy of Fallot, cardiomyopathy, long QT syndrome, pulmonary atresia, tricuspid atresia, hole in the heart, sepsis, and tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). 9 Common procedures he performs include coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve replacement and repair, aortic aneurysm repair, endovascular stent placement, carotid endarterectomy, and minimally invasive cardiac surgeries. 0 9

Notable Achievements

Dr. Kalmath is recognized for pioneering work in minimally invasive techniques. In June 2025, he made global history by successfully performing the world’s first four-vessel minimally invasive coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery, showcasing his expertise in advanced cardiac procedures. 2 6 He actively participates in research, presents at national and international conferences, and contributes to academic discussions in cardiothoracic surgery. 9 He is a member of the Cardiothoracic Surgery Network (CTSNet) and other professional organizations. 30

Personal and Additional Details

Dr. Kalmath is fluent in English, Hindi, Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam, and Marathi, allowing him to connect with diverse patients. 9 He is known for his patient-centered approach, commitment to innovative treatments, and compassionate care. 9 While no publicly available sources detail specific anecdotes about his physical fitness or appearance after long surgeries, his extensive experience with demanding procedures, including those lasting many hours, highlights his professional endurance in high-stakes environments. 9 He maintains an active presence on platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook, where he shares updates on his work. 6 16