88-year-old man with multiple heart blockages successfully treated via Laser Coronary Angiography in Mohali
Doctors at Fortis Hospital in Mohali have successfully treated an 88-year-old diabetic man suffering from prolonged coronary artery disease using Laser Coronary Angioplasty technique. The procedure was led by Dr RK Jaswal, Director of Cardiology and Cathlabs at the hospital.
The patient, a resident of Patiala, was experiencing severe chest pain due to a blocked stent that had been implanted more than 30 years ago during an angioplasty in New Delhi. Despite being on optimal medication, his condition continued to deteriorate. With no hospital in Patiala willing to undertake the high-risk case, his family rushed him to Fortis.
Upon evaluation, doctors found heavy calcium deposits and blood clots within the old stent, causing near-total blockage of the coronary arteries. Given the patient’s advanced age and critical condition, Dr Jaiswal conducted an Excimer Laser Coronary Angioplasty (ELCA), a highly advanced procedure that uses high-intensity laser light to remove blockages inside the arteries.
“ELCA is a breakthrough in heart treatment. Unlike routine angioplasty, which can lead to sudden blockage of arteries and clot formation, ELCA annihilates the blockage completely, leaving no risk of complications. This makes it safe and effective for patients with high clot loads, prior stents, or failed bypass grafts.” stent treatments. For patients with complex coronary heart disease, including small vessel disease, bifurcation blockages, and those with failed stents or bypass grafts, ELCA is a game-changer. It reopens blocked arteries more effectively, providing relief where traditional methods fall short and reducing the chances of future heart attacks.”
“ELCA is a breakthrough in cardiac care, especially in complex cases like this one,” said Dr. Jaswal. “Unlike conventional angioplasty, which may sometimes trigger sudden artery closure, laser angioplasty dissolves the blockage completely, minimizing the risk of complications. It’s especially useful in patients with heavily calcified arteries, prior stents, or failed bypass grafts.”
Chandigarh