Chennai Hospital Introduces Laser Angioplasty for Complex Heart Blockages
Prashanth Hospitals in Chennai has introduced a new laser-based technology to treat complex coronary artery disease. The procedure, known as excimer laser coronary atherectomy (ELCA), is now available at the hospital's Velachery unit. It offers a minimally invasive option for patients with difficult blockages that cannot be effectively treated with conventional angioplasty alone.
According to a press release from the hospital, ELCA uses a specialised ultraviolet laser to precisely vaporise plaque and blood clots. The technology is designed to address some of the most challenging coronary lesions, including in-stent restenosis (re-narrowing of a previously stented artery), moderately calcified lesions, ostial lesions (blockages at the opening of arteries), lesions that have failed previous balloon angioplasty, and occluded saphenous vein grafts (blocked bypass grafts).
During a presentation on Friday, Dr Aravind Duruvasal, senior consultant interventional cardiologist at the hospital, explained that the laser uses ultraviolet light to break chemical bonds within organic compounds and sonic waves to crack hardened tissue. 'ELCA allows us to safely treat some of the more difficult coronary lesions, restore blood flow with greater precision, and in carefully selected patients, avoid more invasive procedures,' he said.
The procedure is performed through a small puncture in the wrist or groin, similar to conventional angioplasty. It is intended for patients who have limited treatment options due to the complexity of their blockages.
The facility was officially launched by film director K.S. Ravikumar. Dr Prashanth Krishna, director of Prashanth Group of Hospitals, was also present at the event.
Coronary artery disease remains a leading cause of death globally, and technological advancements such as ELCA offer new hope for patients with severe blockages. However, the procedure is not suitable for all patients and must be carefully selected by interventional cardiologists based on individual clinical profiles.
Prashanth Hospitals is a multi-speciality healthcare provider in Chennai, known for its cardiac care services. The introduction of ELCA adds to the range of treatment options available for heart patients in the region.
