Angioplasty in India: A Comprehensive Guide

Planning to undergo angioplasty in India and seeking detailed guidance? What exactly does angioplasty involve, and how do India's hospitals rank in terms of expertise and technology for this procedure? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about angioplasty in India, from the procedure itself to choosing the best hospital that meets your medical needs.

The Angioplasty Procedure

Preparation: Before undergoing angioplasty, the patient undergoes a series of diagnostic tests to ensure the procedure's appropriateness and to pinpoint the exact location and severity of the artery blockage. These tests typically include:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures the electrical activity of the heart to detect abnormalities.
• Blood Tests: Assess overall health and check for conditions that might complicate the procedure.
• Coronary Angiography: An imaging technique where a special dye is injected into the coronary arteries, making them visible on X-rays. This helps the doctor see the extent and location of the blockages.
• Medical History and Physical Examination: A thorough review of the patient's medical history and a physical exam to ensure the patient is fit for the procedure.

Patients are advised to avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the procedure. They are also instructed to stop certain medications that may increase the risk of bleeding during angioplasty.

Procedure:

1. Insertion of the Catheter:

• The procedure begins with the patient lying on an X-ray table. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the insertion site, usually in the groin or wrist.
• A small incision is made, and a sheath is inserted into the blood vessel.
• Through the sheath, a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted and guided through the blood vessels to the coronary arteries.

• Once the catheter reaches the site of the blockage, a smaller catheter with a deflated balloon at its tip is threaded through the initial catheter.
• The balloon is then carefully positioned at the blockage site and inflated. The inflation of the balloon compresses the plaque against the artery walls, widening the artery and improving blood flow.
• The balloon is deflated and removed, leaving the artery more open than before.

• In many cases, a stent is placed to ensure the artery remains open. A stent is a small, wire mesh tube that provides structural support to the artery walls.
• The stent is mounted on the balloon catheter and expanded when the balloon is inflated. This expansion embeds the stent into the artery wall.
• The balloon is then deflated and removed, but the stent stays in place permanently to keep the artery open.

Duration: The entire angioplasty procedure usually takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the complexity and number of blockages. Although the patient remains awake during the procedure, they are sedated to ensure comfort and minimal discomfort.

Post-Procedure Care:

1. Immediate Recovery:

• After the procedure, the patient is moved to a recovery area where their heart rate, blood pressure, and insertion site are closely monitored.
• Patients typically need to lie flat for several hours to prevent bleeding from the catheter insertion site, especially if the groin was used.

• Most patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days. During this time, they are monitored for any complications, such as bleeding, infection, or adverse reactions to the stent.
• Patients are encouraged to start walking and moving around to promote blood flow and prevent blood clots.

• Post-procedure, patients are prescribed medications to prevent blood clots, such as antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin and clopidogrel).
• Other medications may be prescribed to manage cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and diabetes, as well as to prevent further plaque buildup.

• Patients are advised to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle to improve their overall cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of future blockages.
• This includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing stress.

• Regular follow-up appointments with the cardiologist are essential to monitor the patient's progress and the effectiveness of the stent.
• Periodic tests, such as stress tests and blood work, may be conducted to ensure the heart is functioning well and to detect any issues early.

Angioplasty is a highly effective procedure for treating blocked coronary arteries, leading to significant improvements in heart health and quality of life. With proper post-procedure care and lifestyle adjustments, patients can enjoy a healthier, more active life.

Top Doctors in India

1. Dr. Naresh Trehan,

Gender: Male
Designation: Chairman and Managing Director - Medanta Heart Institute
Country: India

Experience

1. Chairman and Managing Director at Medanta - The Medicity: 2009 - Present
2. Senior Consultant, Cardio Vascular Surgery at Apollo Hospitals, Sarita Vihar: 2007 - 2009
3. Executive Director and Chief Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeon at Escorts Heart Institute and Research Institute: 1988 - 2007
4. Personal Surgeon at The President of India: 1991 - Present
5. Honorary Consultant at Cromwell Hospital, London, UK: 1994 - Present

Education

1. Diplomate - The American Board of Cardiothoracic Surgery, USA: 1979
2. Diplomate - The American Board of Surgery, USA: 1977
3. M.B.B.S. - K.G. Medical College Lucknow: 1968

About

• Dr. Naresh Trehan serves as the Chairman and Managing Director of Medanta - The Medicity, Gurugram, where he is a world-renowned cardiovascular and cardiothoracic surgeon.
• Awarded the highly prestigious Padma Bhushan and the Padma Shri by the Government of India, Dr Trehan has an illustrious career with over 48,000 successful open heart surgeries to his credit.
• He holds Diplomate status from The American Board of Cardiothoracic Surgery (USA) in 1979, Diplomate from The American Board of Surgery (USA) in 1977, and completed his M.B.B.S. from K.G. Medical College Lucknow in 1968.
• Dr. Trehan specializes in Cardiothoracic Surgery, Cardiovascular Surgery, Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery, and Heart Transplant.
• With a vast experience spanning several decades, he has held key positions such as Senior Consultant at Apollo Hospitals, Sarita Vihar, Executive Director and Chief Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeon at Escorts Heart Institute and Research Institute, and Personal Surgeon to The President of India.
• Dr. Trehan has received numerous awards, including the Dr. B. C. Roy National Award (2005), Padma Bhushan (2001), Padma Shri (1991), and many more.
• His memberships and certifications include being the Ex-President of the International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery, a member of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons of the U.S.A., and various roles in national and international healthcare organizations.
• Dr Trehan is actively involved in advisory roles, serving as the Vice Chairman of the Services Export Promotion Council, Chairman of the Confederation of Indian Industries-Healthcare Industry Committee, and contributing to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, among others.

Awards

1. Padma Bhushan Award by President of India: 2001 - In recognition of distinguished service in the field of Cardiology Medicine.
2. Padma Shri Award by President of India: 1991 - In recognition of distinguished service in the field of Surgery.
3. Dr. B. C. Roy Award from the Medical Council of India: 2002
4. Ranked #35th in India's 50 Most Powerful People of 2017 by India Today magazine

Surgeries

• No. of Surgeries: 48,000
• Experience Years: 43

2. Dr. Ajit Menon

Profile: Dr. Ajit Menon is a highly respected and experienced interventional cardiologist based in Mumbai, India. He is known for his expertise in performing complex angioplasties and managing high-risk cardiac patients. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Menon has made significant contributions to the field of cardiology, earning a reputation for excellence and compassion in patient care.

Current Position:

• Hospital: Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai
• Designation: Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist

Specialization:

• Interventional Cardiology
• Complex Angioplasty
• Coronary Artery Disease
• Peripheral Vascular Interventions
• Structural Heart Disease Interventions

Experience: Dr. Menon has performed thousands of successful angioplasty procedures, including those involving high-risk patients and complex cases. His extensive experience and advanced skills ensure that patients receive the highest quality of care with the best possible outcomes.

Achievements:

• Recognized for his expertise in handling complex coronary interventions.
• Pioneered several advanced interventional cardiology techniques.
• Regularly participates in national and international cardiology conferences, sharing his knowledge and learning about the latest advancements in the field.
• Actively involved in research and publications, contributing to the advancement of interventional cardiology.

Patient Care Approach: Dr. Menon is known for his patient-centric approach, taking the time to understand each patient's unique condition and concerns. He emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment plans and ensures that his patients are well-informed about their procedures and recovery plans.

Affiliations and Memberships:

• Member of various prestigious cardiology societies and associations.
• Regularly invited as a speaker and panelist at cardiology seminars and workshops.

Education and Training:

• Completed his medical education and specialized training in cardiology at renowned institutions.
• Continues to pursue further education and training to stay updated with the latest techniques and innovations in cardiology.

Top Hospitals in India

1. Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

Apollo Hospitals on Greams Road in Chennai was established in 1983 by Dr. Prathap C Reddy. It was India's first corporate hospital and is acclaimed for pioneering the private healthcare revolution in the country. Over the years, Apollo Hospitals has risen to a position of leadership, emerging as Asia's foremost integrated healthcare services provider.

Location

• Address: 21 Greams Lane, Off Greams Road, Thousand Lights, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600006, India
• City: Chennai
• Country: India

Hospital Features

• Established Year: 1983
• Treatment Availability: International
• Hospital Category: Medical
• Status: Active
• Visibility on Website: Yes

About Apollo Hospitals

Apollo Hospitals has a robust presence across the healthcare ecosystem, including hospitals, pharmacies, primary care, and diagnostic clinics. The Group also has telemedicine units across 10 countries, health insurance services, global projects consultancy, medical colleges, Med-varsity for e-learning, colleges of nursing, and hospital management.

Team and Specialties

• Cardiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery: Apollo Hospitals hosts one of the largest cardiovascular groups globally, with around 14 world-class institutes, over 400 cardiologists & cardiac surgeons, and 200 heart stations.
• Robotic Spinal Surgery: Among the few centres in Asia to perform this advanced procedure, Apollo is at the forefront of spinal disorder management.
• Cancer Care: A 300-bedded, NABH-accredited hospital providing advanced technology in diagnosis and radiation, supported by an oncology team of renowned specialists and well-trained medical and paramedical professionals.
• Gastroenterology: Offers the latest endoscopic procedures for gastrointestinal bleeding, cancers, foreign body removal, etc.
• Transplant Institutes: The Apollo Transplant Institutes (ATI) is one of the largest, most comprehensive, and busiest solid transplant programs globally.
• Liver Surgery: Equipped with a 320-slice CT scanner, a state-of-the-art Liver Intensive Care Unit & Operation Theatre, and various surgical tools to enable safe & bloodless liver surgery.
• Neurosurgery: Recognized as a leader in acute neurosurgery, Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, is among the top hospitals specializing in neuro care worldwide.

Infrastructure

With the experience of over one million health checks, Apollo Hospitals has emerged as a key player in the corporate healthcare sector. Over 500 leading corporates, across all industry segments, have tied up with Apollo Hospitals, providing their employees ready access to sophisticated medical facilities at over 64 locations in India. The corporate services initiative of Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, aims to provide world-standard healthcare within the reach of every individual.

2. Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI), Gurugram

Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI) in Gurgaon is a premier multi-super specialty, quaternary care hospital. Known for its international faculty and reputed clinicians, including super-sub-specialists and speciality nurses, FMRI is supported by cutting-edge technology. The hospital aims to be the 'Mecca of Healthcare' for the Asia Pacific region and beyond.

Location

• Address: Sector - 44, Opposite HUDA City Centre, Gurgaon, Haryana - 122002, India
• City: Gurgaon
• Country: India

Hospital Features

• Established Year: 2001
• Number of Beds: 1000
• Number of ICU Beds: 81
• Operation Theaters: 15
• Hospital Category: Medical
• Treatment Availability: International
• Status: Active
• Visibility on Website: Yes

Specialties

FMRI excels in several medical specialities, including:

• Neurosciences
• Oncology
• Renal Sciences
• Orthopedics
• Cardiac Sciences
• Obstetrics and Gynecology

These specialities leverage advanced technology and top clinicians to deliver exceptional healthcare services.

Team and Expertise

• International Recognition: FMRI has been ranked No.2 of the 30 most technologically advanced hospitals in the world by ‘topmastersinhealthcare.com,’ surpassing many other outstanding medical institutions globally.
• Patient Care: Fortis hospitals treat over 3.5 lakh patients annually, relying on reputed clinicians, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and world-class technology such as the Da Vinci robot, ensuring patients go home healthy.
• Innovative Initiatives: FMRI's initiatives range from customized preventive health checks to quaternary care provided by super-specialized clinicians conducting rare and complex surgeries.

About Fortis Healthcare

FMRI is a flagship hospital of Fortis Healthcare, one of the top healthcare providers in India. Fortis Healthcare is known for its commitment to quality healthcare and patient safety, making FMRI one of the most sought-after medical destinations in the region.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact FMRI through the provided email addresses.

3. BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital

BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital in New Delhi was established by Dr B L Kapur, an eminent Obstetrician and Gynecologist. Originally set up as a charitable hospital in Lahore in 1930, the hospital was reestablished in post-partition India in Ludhiana and later in Delhi at the invitation of the then Prime Minister. The hospital was inaugurated by Prime Minister Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru on January 2, 1959.

Location

• Address: Pusa Rd, Radha Soami Satsang, Karol Bagh, New Delhi, Delhi, India
• City: New Delhi
• Country: India

About Hospital

• History: BLK Super Speciality Hospital was founded by Dr. B L Kapur. The hospital celebrated its Silver Jubilee in 1984, marking its status as Delhi's premier multispecialty institute.
• Services: The hospital offers services in General Surgery, Ophthalmology, ENT, Dentistry, Pulmonology, Intensive Care, Orthopedics, and mother & child care.
• Capacity: Spread over five acres with 650 beds, BLK is one of the largest tertiary care private hospitals in India.
• Facilities: Outpatient services are spread across two floors with 60 consultation rooms. The hospital has 17 state-of-the-art modular operation theatres equipped with advanced technology.
• Critical Care: The hospital has 125 critical care beds in various intensive care units, including Medical, Surgical, Cardiac, Pediatrics, Neonatology, Neurosciences, and Organ Transplant units. Each unit is equipped with high-end patient monitoring devices, ventilators, and dedicated isolation rooms.

Infrastructure

• Operation Theatres: 17 well-equipped modular operation theatres with three-stage air filtration and gas scavenging systems.
• Critical Care: The hospital has one of the largest critical care programs in the region with 125 ICU beds.
• Transplant Centers: Dedicated ICUs for Liver and Renal Transplants with specialized instruments and equipment.
• Birthing Suites: Specialized birthing suites with telemetric fetal monitors and a dedicated operation theatre adjacent to the labour room.
• Technology: Advanced Building Management System, automatic pneumatic chute system, Wi-Fi-enabled campus, and top-of-the-line Hospital Information System (HIS) with contemporary electronic medical records (EMR).

Cost of Angioplasty in India

Risks of Angioplasty

While angioplasty is generally safe, there are potential risks, including:

• Bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site
• Blood vessel damage
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Re-narrowing of the artery (restenosis)
• Blood clots forming in the stent

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

• Hospital Stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for 1-2 days.
• Activity: Patients can typically resume normal activities within a week but should avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks.
• Medications: Patients are prescribed blood thinners to prevent blood clots and may need other medications to manage cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor heart health and the effectiveness of the stent.

In conclusion, angioplasty in India represents a pinnacle of cardiac care, blending cutting-edge medical technologies with the expertise of skilled cardiologists. Renowned for its commitment to personalized patient care and a wide spectrum of treatments including balloon angioplasty and stent placement, India stands out as a premier destination for individuals seeking effective solutions to heart conditions. With a strong emphasis on achieving high success rates and enhancing overall cardiac health, India's reputation for excellence and affordability makes it a preferred choice for those pursuing comprehensive cardiac interventions.