Pune: In a pioneering achievement, Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Deccan Gymkhana, has successfully performed Pune’s first laser-assisted, stent-free angioplasty on a 70-year-old diabetic patient. The state-of-the-art procedure, led by Dr. Abhijeet Palshikar, Director of Cardiology at the hospital, marks a significant advancement in interventional cardiology by offering an alternative to traditional metal stents.
The patient, who had a history of diabetes, suffered a mild heart attack three days prior to the procedure. Diagnostic tests revealed significant calcium buildup in his arteries, making traditional stenting challenging. Additionally, the patient was hesitant about having a permanent stent implanted.
To address these concerns, the medical team opted for a laser-assisted angioplasty combined with a drug-coated balloon. The Excimer laser, a cutting-edge technology, was used to effectively clear the hardened calcium and cholesterol deposits, restoring normal blood flow. Instead of inserting a permanent metal stent, a drug-coated balloon was used to deliver targeted medication to the artery, ensuring the vessel remained open without any residual implant.
Dr. Abhijeet Palshikar explained the key advantages of the procedure, emphasizing its safety, effectiveness, and quicker recovery time. “Unlike traditional stents, which remain in the body permanently and can pose risks of restenosis (artery re-narrowing), this laser-assisted approach eliminates such concerns. The patient was walking independently the next day and was discharged within 24 hours,” said Dr. Palshikar.
Dr. Sunil Rao, Chief Operating Officer and Medical Director at Sahyadri Group of Hospitals, highlighted the potential impact of this innovative technique, stating: “The success of Pune’s first laser-assisted, stent-free angioplasty paves the way for a new era in interventional cardiology. This procedure offers a safer, minimally invasive alternative to traditional stents, ensuring better patient outcomes.”
The Excimer laser technology used in the procedure is renowned for its precision in breaking down calcified plaques, reducing risks while ensuring effective plaque removal. Additionally, drug-coated balloons provide targeted therapy, preventing restenosis without requiring permanent metal implants.
Dr. Palshikar concluded by emphasizing the potential of this breakthrough technique: “Patients with complex arterial blockages or those reluctant about stent placement now have a safer, more effective alternative. We anticipate that this procedure will become more common in the future, improving outcomes for a wide range of patients.”