Bengaluru, 21 April 2026: Doctors at Fortis Hospital Cunningham Road, Bengaluru, successfully revived a 56-year-old man, who had suffered a severe heart attack, using an emergency angioplasty procedure completed in just record 16 minutes. This rapid intervention is among the fastest reported in Karnataka and was managed by Dr. Mitesh Kumar, Senior Consultant – Cardiology, Fortis Hospital Cunningham Road, Bengaluru.
Patient Mr. Rajendra Kumar, was rushed to a local hospital after experiencing a sudden severe chest pain and was then shifted to Fortis for specialized cardiac care. Upon admission at Fortis Hospital Cunningham Road, advanced imaging confirmed significant heart muscle injury, and echocardiography showed reduced heart function with an ejection fraction of approximately 45%. A coronary angiogram further revealed blockages in two major coronary arteries along with an additional branch vessel, indicating a high-risk cardiac condition requiring immediate intervention. The cardiology team quickly performed a minimally invasive procedure, where a thin tube (catheter) was inserted through a blood vessel in the groin and guided to the blocked heart artery. A small drug coated balloon was then inflated to open the blockage and restore blood flow. The entire procedure from catheter insertion to restoration of blood flow was completed in just 16 minutes, significantly faster than the typical 30-60 minutes required for standard angioplasty procedures. The post-operative recovery remained smooth and uneventful.
Giving details of the case, Dr. Mitesh Kumar, Senior Consultant – Cardiology, Fortis Hospital Cunningham Road, Bengaluru said, “In major heart attacks, every minute of delay leads to irreversible heart muscle damage. Rapid diagnosis, and swift restoration of blood flow are critical for survival and long-term heart function. Completing this complex angioplasty in 16 minutes highlights the preparedness, coordination, and advanced expertise of our emergency cardiac care team.”
Sharing his experience, the patient said, “I experienced sudden, intense chest pain and my family was extremely frightened when they told it was a major heart attack. The doctors acted very quickly, explained the treatment clearly, and reassured my family. I am grateful that the procedure was done in time and that I am now recovering well.”
Mr. Praveen Wali, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, said, “This case demonstrates the life-saving impact of rapid emergency cardiac response supported by advanced infrastructure and experienced specialists. At Fortis Hospital Cunningham Road, our focus remains on early intervention, clinical excellence, and compassionate care that enables faster recovery for patients experiencing critical cardiac events.”
