A tribute to Mr Ramesh Patel
14 August 2026
(Last updated: 14 Aug 2026 12:14)
It is with great sadness that SCTS announces the sudden demise of Mr Ramesh Patel on the 12th of August 2026
"Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence."
— Vince Lombardi
He had a very illustrious career.
He qualified from University of Sheffield Medical School (1975-1980), and completed his General surgical rotation (1981-1985). Pursuing his interest in cardiac surgery, he was a Cardiothoracic Registrar at Kings College Hospital (1986-1987), Thoracic Registrar Harefield Hospital (1988-1989), Cardiothoracic Registrar St Thomas Hospital (1990-1991) and Sir Jules Thorn Research Fellow, Rayne Institute (1992-1993).
He was appointed as Senior Registrar in the West Midlands Cardiothoracic Rotation (1993-1994).
He was subsequently appointed as Consultant Cardiac Surgeon in 1994, at the then Walsgrave Hospital, which later was to become the new University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, in 2006.
He served as the Clinical Director from year 2004 to year 2012.
His main clinical interests were Mitral Valve repair, and surgery for atrial fibrillation.
His pursuit of perfection and excellence, attention to detail, and an inquisitive mind, made him rise above his peers, and achieve what he did. He was one of the early pioneers in mitral reparative surgery in the UK. He not only successfully raised his profile at national, and international level with his mitral work, but also helped put our department, on the national map, at one stage, being an exemplar in mitral work.
He was passionate about quality and outcomes, contributing personally as the audit lead to departmental cardiac Surgical Audit.
He took partial retirement in 2015, returning to work, mainly operating, and clinic work, and mentoring colleagues. He was an avid teacher, and taught mitral surgery to many trainees, including organising training courses. Quite a few of his trainees are continuing his legacy at consultant level in the country.
Charity was close to his heart, with almost yearly charity operative mission commitment for over 15 years, in his home country Kenya.
He took full retirement in June 2022.
On a personal level, he was quite a dynamic personality. Quite outspoken at times, and equally well liked by all, and popular surgeon.
Speed was an essence to him, in whatever he did. In the good old days, it was not uncommon for him to do three cardiac cases on a list!!!. Something unheard of these days. His sudden demise is sad and shocking to all of us, especially his family. Equally we should take comfort, that he did not suffer, and perhaps the way he would have wanted to depart.
They say that behind every successful man there are women. He leaves behind his wife Susan, and twin daughters Lara and Hannah, both of whom are medics, and one is following on his legacy. Only recently, he gave one of his daughters away, to Harry his son in law, and was looking forward to the other’s engagement soon.
I personally knew him for almost 30 years. I have lost a friend, mentor, and a former colleague. I will always be indebted for his support and friendship.
Funeral details have not been confirmed yet, but we shall keep you informed about future arrangements.
Rest in peace Ramesh.
Written by: Mr Uday Dandekar
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