Laser Angioplasty in India: Pioneered by Dr. A.B. Gopalamurugan in Chennai
Introduction: Redefining Heart Care in India
Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of mortality in India, and the need for advanced, minimally invasive treatments has never been greater. One such breakthrough in cardiac care is Laser Angioplasty—a technique that uses laser energy to open blocked coronary arteries, offering a safer and often more effective alternative to traditional angioplasty.
India’s journey with laser angioplasty began with a visionary—Dr. A.B. Gopalamurugan, a name now synonymous with innovation in interventional cardiology. Not only did he introduce the first commercial laser angioplasty in India, but he continues to lead cutting-edge cardiac care from Chennai, where he serves as a senior interventional cardiologist and electrophysiologist.
What Is Laser Angioplasty?
Laser angioplasty, also known as Excimer Laser Coronary Angioplasty (ELCA), is an advanced medical procedure used to treat complex coronary artery blockages. Unlike traditional angioplasty that uses balloons, laser angioplasty emits pulses of ultraviolet light to vaporize plaque and thrombus in the arteries.
Key Benefits:
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Targets and removes hard plaque that balloon angioplasty may not open
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Useful in chronic total occlusions (CTO)
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Effective in stent restenosis (re-narrowing)
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Reduces the need for open-heart surgery
A Visionary Leader in Cardiology
Dr. A.B. Gopalamurugan is recognized as the pioneer of laser angioplasty in India. With over 16 years of intensive training and practice in the UK, particularly in London, he brought back world-class expertise to India. His training includes:
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Specialization in Interventional Cardiology
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Electrophysiology and Device Therapy
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Paediatric EP from Great Ormond Street Hospital, UK
Currently based in Chennai, Dr. Gopalamurugan is known for delivering state-of-the-art cardiac services and conducting India’s largest course for transcatheter valve therapies—INDIAVALVES.
His Centers of Consultation:
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Chennai – Royapettah
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Mumbai – Cooperage Street
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London – W1 Healthcare, Russell Gardens
Why Chennai Is the Epicenter for Laser Angioplasty in India
Chennai has emerged as a healthcare hub in South Asia. With the establishment of elite cardiac centers and experts like Dr. Gopalamurugan, the city now leads the charge in high-end cardiovascular interventions, particularly laser angioplasty.
Advantages of Choosing Chennai:
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Advanced catheter labs equipped with excimer laser systems
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Expertise in complex and redo angioplasty
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Cost-effective treatment compared to the West
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Strong medical infrastructure and international patient services
Who Needs Laser Angioplasty?
Laser angioplasty is especially beneficial for:
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Patients with hardened or calcified arteries
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Individuals with in-stent restenosis
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Patients suffering from chronic total occlusion (CTO)
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Cases where traditional balloon angioplasty has failed
The Procedure: How Does Laser Angioplasty Work?
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Diagnosis: Coronary angiography is performed to identify the blockage.
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Laser Catheter Insertion: A catheter with a laser tip is inserted into the artery.
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Laser Pulses: UV laser pulses vaporize the blockage at the cellular level.
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Balloon/ Stent Support: Often followed by balloon angioplasty or stenting.
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Post-Procedure Care: Minimal hospital stay, early return to daily life.
Duration:
The procedure usually takes 1-2 hours, depending on complexity.
Recovery:
Most patients are discharged within 24-48 hours, with return to work in a week or less.
Real Success Stories in India
Dr. Gopalamurugan’s team has performed numerous landmark procedures in India, transforming the lives of patients previously turned down for surgery or conventional angioplasty.
“I had multiple blockages and had undergone stenting twice. It was only when I met Dr. Gopalamurugan that I was introduced to laser angioplasty. It truly saved my life.” — Patient testimonial, Chennai
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Dr. A.B. Gopalamurugan Cardiology
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Advanced Heart Care Chennai
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The Future of Cardiac Care in India
Dr. Gopalamurugan envisions a future where laser angioplasty becomes a standard option, especially for high-risk patients. His work at INDIAVALVES, training hundreds of cardiologists in transcatheter and laser-based interventions, ensures that India remains at the forefront of global cardiology advancements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the cost of laser angioplasty in India?
The cost ranges between ₹1.5 to ₹3.5 lakhs depending on complexity and location. Chennai offers some of the most affordable rates for this advanced procedure.
2. Is laser angioplasty safe?
Yes. When performed by an experienced cardiologist like Dr. Gopalamurugan, laser angioplasty is a safe, FDA-approved technique, especially effective for complex cases.
3. What is the recovery time after laser angioplasty?
Most patients can return home in 1–2 days and resume light activity within a week.
4. Is this procedure available across India?
While few centers offer laser angioplasty, Chennai, Mumbai, and Delhi are leading destinations. Chennai, led by pioneers like Dr. Gopalamurugan, remains a preferred location.
5. Does insurance cover laser angioplasty in India?
Yes. Most major health insurance providers in India cover angioplasty procedures, including laser angioplasty, especially when medically indicated.
Schedule a Consultation
📍 Chennai Clinic Address:
2nd Floor, 46 & 48, Masilamani Rd, Balaji Nagar, Royapettah, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600014
📞 Call: 080560 88898
📍 Mumbai Clinic Address:
Indian Cancer Society, Cooperage St, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400021
📞 Call: 089400 88898
📍 London Address:
W1 Healthcare, 7 Russell Gardens, London W14 8EZ
📞 Call: +44 7425 861747
