CTO – A 64-year-old female patient from Can Tho City, facing a life-threatening episode of acute angina pectoris, was successfully rescued by doctors at the Department of Cardiology – Interventional Cardiology, Nam Can Tho University Hospital through a cardiac intervention involving the placement of three stents to restore blood flow in major coronary arteries.

The patient was admitted to the hospital due to chest pain and was diagnosed with myocardial ischemia. She had a medical history of hypertension and dyslipidemia. Coronary angiography revealed severe stenosis at the left coronary artery bifurcation, involving the origin of four major branches, and critical narrowing of the left anterior descending (LAD) artery – the main vessel supplying the heart. The coronary arteries also presented with significant calcification and tortuosity.

According to the medical team, the patient's coronary anatomy was complex and highly challenging for intervention. However, under the leadership of Dr. Tran Chi Dung, MD, PhD, Deputy Head of the Department of Cardiology – Interventional Cardiology, the team successfully implanted three large stents: one measuring 4 mm in diameter and two 3.5 mm stents. These stents fully restored perfusion to the heart muscle, helping the patient overcome a critical condition. Post-procedure imaging confirmed complete reperfusion of the coronary arteries. The patient recovered well and is expected to be discharged within 48 hours following the intervention.

Dr. Tran Chi Dung emphasized: “Severe stenosis at the left main coronary bifurcation is an extremely dangerous condition. If an occlusion occurs at this site without timely intervention, the risk of sudden cardiac arrest at home is very high. This patient was particularly fortunate to be diagnosed and treated promptly.”.

The image of Severe vascular stenosis

Based on this case, Dr. Dung issued the following recommendations for early detection and prevention of cardiovascular diseases:

• Regular health check-ups: Screen for cardiovascular diseases and risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia—especially in individuals who smoke, are overweight or obese, physically inactive, or have a family history of early cardiovascular disease.
• Recognize warning signs: Individuals with risk factors should seek immediate medical attention if experiencing chest pain, chest tightness, fatigue, shortness of breath, excessive sweating, or epigastric pain.
• Control risk factors: Maintain blood pressure, blood sugar, and lipid levels within target ranges. Stop smoking, limit alcohol consumption, avoid overweight/obesity, and exercise regularly.
• Adhere to treatment: Follow prescribed medication regimens and attend scheduled follow-up visits as instructed by healthcare providers.