Mumbai, Apr 1: In a powerful example of how timely medical intervention and advanced cardiac care can save lives at any age, a 90–year–old woman was successfully treated for a major heart attack after being rushed to Apex Multi Speciality Hospital, Borivali, in critical condition. The patient, a known case of hypertension, presented with acute onset severe chest pain radiating to the back, breathlessness, and extreme weakness. On arrival, she had elevated blood pressure and borderline oxygen saturation, while clinical examination revealed bilateral basal crepitations, indicating significant cardiac compromise.
An electrocardiogram confirmed an acute inferior wall myocardial infarction (IWMI), a serious and life-threatening form of heart attack. Given the high-risk nature of the case and ongoing heart muscle damage, the medical team immediately proceeded with an urgent coronary angiography. The investigation revealed a critical blockage in the Right Coronary Artery (RCA).
Considering the patient’s advanced age, fragile condition, and the complexity involved, the team made a prompt decision to perform an emergency angioplasty. The procedure was successfully carried out with the placement of a drug-eluting stent in the Right Coronary Artery, restoring blood flow to the heart.
Following the procedure, the patient was closely monitored in the ICU, where she showed steady clinical improvement. She was later shifted to the ward and discharged in a hemodynamically stable and clinically improved condition.
Interventional Cardiologist Dr. Anand Ram, who led the procedure, highlighted the challenges of such cases, stating, “Angioplasty in very elderly patients is always high-risk due to fragile blood vessels, multiple co-morbidities, and reduced physiological reserve. However, with timely intervention, careful planning, and advanced techniques, we can achieve excellent outcomes. In heart attacks, every minute counts, and early treatment can be lifesaving—even at 90.”
This case underscores the importance of early recognition of heart attack symptoms and immediate medical attention. It also reinforces that age should not be a limiting factor when it comes to receiving life-saving cardiac care. The successful outcome stands as a testament to the expertise of the medical team and the availability of advanced cardiac intervention facilities in Mumbai, offering hope to elderly patients and their families.
