Choosing Between Stents and Bypass Surgery for Heart Disease
By: Dr. Akhil Kumar Rustagi, Director & Head of Department – Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgery, Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida
Heart disease remains a leading cause of death in India, with an alarming increase in cases of blocked arteries. Coronary artery disease, which involves the narrowing or blockage of arteries supplying blood to the heart, often necessitates interventions like stenting or bypass surgery. Choosing the appropriate treatment depends on several factors, including the severity and location of blockages, the patient’s overall health, and long-term goals for heart function and quality of life.
In India, over 3 million people are estimated to suffer from coronary artery disease annually. With a rise in cases due to sedentary lifestyles, poor diet, smoking, and diabetes. Understanding treatment options is essential for managing this growing health concern.
Arteries can become narrowed due to plaque buildup—a mix of cholesterol, fatty deposits, and other substances—reducing blood flow to the heart and increasing the risk of heart attack. This condition can cause symptoms such as chest pain (angina), breathlessness, fatigue, and even heart failure if left untreated. Early diagnosis through tests like ECG, stress tests, and coronary angiography helps determine the extent of blockage and the right intervention.
Stents: Minimally Invasive and Quick Recovery
Stenting, or percutaneous coronary intervention, involves inserting a tiny tube into the narrowed artery to keep it open, improving blood flow. This procedure is less invasive, usually performed under local anesthesia, and patients typically return home within a day or two.
Drug-eluting stents, which release medication to prevent re-narrowing, are commonly used. Stents are ideal for patients with one or two blocked arteries or those who may not tolerate surgery due to age or other health conditions. However, patients must take blood-thinning medications long-term and may face a risk of re-blockage in certain cases.
Bypass Surgery: Comprehensive Treatment for Severe Blockages
Coronary artery bypass grafting is a more invasive procedure where surgeons use blood vessels from another part of the body to create a new route for blood to flow around blocked arteries. It is typically recommended for patients with multiple blockages, especially in major arteries or in diabetics, where stenting may not provide lasting results.
Though recovery takes longer—hospital stays can last 5–7 days with several weeks of rehabilitation—bypass surgery has proven long-term benefits, including reduced risk of repeat procedures and better outcomes for complex heart disease.
Comparing Outcomes and Making the Decision
Both stents and bypass surgery have their merits. Studies show that while stents are effective for short-term relief and quicker recovery, bypass surgery offers better long-term survival in patients with severe multi-vessel disease. The choice depends on factors like age, co-morbidities (diabetes, high blood pressure), number and location of blockages, and patient preferences.
It’s crucial to consult a cardiologist or cardiothoracic surgeon to evaluate all options based on individual health conditions. With advancements in minimally invasive bypass techniques and improved stent technology, treatment can be tailored to offer the best outcomes.
As heart disease cases rise across India, timely intervention is critical. Understanding the benefits and limitations of both stents and bypass surgery can help patients make informed decisions. Early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and expert consultation are key to preserving heart health and improving quality of life for those with coronary artery disease.
Recognizing the First Warning Signs of Kidney Trouble
By: Dr Vipin Sisodia, Consultant – Urology, Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida
Kidneys play a vital role in maintaining overall health by filtering waste products, balancing fluids, regulating blood pressure, and supporting red blood cell production. However, kidney problems often go unnoticed until they become severe. In India, kidney diseases are a growing concern, with Chronic Kidney Disease affecting nearly 15–17% of the population, according to recent studies. Factors such as uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, poor hydration, and indiscriminate use of over-the-counter painkillers contribute significantly to rising kidney issues in both urban and rural populations.
Common Warning Signs to Watch For
Kidney problems often begin silently, but the body gives early hints when the kidneys are under stress or beginning to fail. Common warning signs include swelling in the hands, feet, or face due to fluid retention, and noticeable changes in urination patterns such as frequent urination at night, reduced urine output, or foamy, dark-colored urine. Many individuals experience persistent fatigue or weakness as waste builds up in the blood, along with loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting—especially in the mornings.
Itchy or dry skin, caused by imbalanced minerals, and shortness of breath or difficulty concentrating, linked to anemia from kidney dysfunction, are also key indicators. Recognizing these symptoms early and consulting a doctor can make a significant difference in managing kidney health and preventing further complications.
Risk Factors for Kidney Problems in India
India has one of the highest burdens of kidney disease globally. With over 200,000 new patients developing kidney failure each year, many are forced to rely on dialysis or transplantation. Unfortunately, due to low awareness and delayed diagnosis, many patients reach hospitals at advanced stages. Early detection through recognizing warning signs can prevent serious complications and the need for expensive treatments like dialysis.
Certain groups in India are at higher risk of developing kidney diseases, particularly those with diabetes (a major contributor to Chronic Kidney Disease in nearly 40% of cases) and high blood pressure. Additionally, consuming high-sodium diets, using herbal or unregulated medications, and chronic dehydration due to hot climates, especially in northern and central India, further exacerbate the risk.
The Role of Timely Diagnosis and Care
Early-stage kidney disease can often be managed or even reversed with dietary changes, medication, and proper hydration. Routine blood tests (serum creatinine), urine analysis, and kidney function tests are essential for early detection. Ultrasound and imaging also help to assess structural problems like stones or obstructive uropathy and other reversible causes. Individuals with risk factors should undergo regular screening, even in the absence of symptoms.
Kidney diseases are silent killers that progress gradually. Early recognition of symptoms and timely consultation with a nephrologist or urologist can prevent long-term damage and improve quality of life. With increasing awareness and preventive health check-ups, more people can avoid the serious consequences of untreated kidney problems. Paying attention to your body’s early signals can be the first step toward protecting your kidney health and ensuring a healthier future.
Fighting Cancer with a Strong Immune System
By: Dr Raghav Kesri, Senior Consultant and Head Medical Oncology, Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida
For decades, cancer treatment meant battling the disease head-on with surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. But a new frontier is changing that narrative. Immunotherapy, a rapidly evolving approach, which doesn’t attack cancer directly; instead, it empowers the body’s immune system to do what it was designed for, detect and destroy threats. For many patients, especially those with cancers that resist traditional therapies, this shift offers new hope: longer survival, fewer side effects, and in some cases, complete remission.
How Immunotherapy Works
Immunotherapy enhances the body’s natural defense mechanisms to fight cancer by making immune cells more effective at identifying and attacking tumor cells. This approach includes checkpoint inhibitors, which block proteins that prevent immune cells from attacking tumors, thereby allowing the immune system to target cancer more aggressively. Another significant advancement is CAR-T cell therapy, where a patient’s T cells are genetically modified in a laboratory to recognize and destroy cancer cells before being reinfused into the patient’s body. This highly personalized treatment has shown exceptional success in blood cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma.
These therapies have shown remarkable efficacy in treating cancers such as melanoma, lung cancer, and certain blood cancers. Research is also exploring the potential of combining immunotherapy with other treatments, such as chemotherapy and targeted therapy, to enhance effectiveness.
Immunotherapy in India
India has witnessed a sharp rise in cancer cases, with estimates suggesting over 1.5 million new cases annually. The most commonly diagnosed cancers include breast, lung, cervical, and gastrointestinal cancers.
Studies have shown that immunotherapy significantly improves survival rates and, in some cases, leads to complete remission. However, while immunotherapy offers hope, its accessibility remains a challenge due to high costs and the need for specialized medical infrastructure.
To address these challenges, government initiatives and research collaborations are underway to develop cost-effective immunotherapies. Trials are conducted to assess the effectiveness of lower-cost alternatives. Additionally, pharmaceutical companies are working on biosimilar versions of existing immunotherapy drugs to reduce costs and increase availability.
The Future of Cancer Treatment
With ongoing research and technological advancements, the future of immunotherapy looks promising. Scientists are working on refining these treatments to enhance their effectiveness while minimizing side effects. The integration of artificial intelligence and genetic testing is paving the way for more personalized cancer treatments, ensuring that patients receive therapies tailored to their specific tumor profiles.
For cancer patients and their families, consulting an oncologist to explore immunotherapy as part of a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan can provide valuable insights into emerging options. While financial and infrastructural challenges remain, the growing adoption of immunotherapy represents a significant step toward more effective, targeted, and potentially curative cancer care.
Managing Winter Risks and Staying Strong for Cancer Patients
By:Dr Raghav Kesri, Senior Consultant and Head Medical Oncology, Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida
Cancer treatment can be a challenging journey for patients, and the winter months often add an extra layer of difficulty. The drop in temperatures and the onset of seasonal illnesses pose unique risks for individuals undergoing cancer treatment or recovering from it. Understanding how cold weather affects cancer patients and taking appropriate precautions is essential for managing health during this season.
Cold Weather and Its Effect on Cancer Patients
The colder months can significantly affect the overall well-being of cancer patients. One of the primary concerns is weakened immunity. Many cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, suppress the immune system, making patients more susceptible to seasonal infections like the flu and pneumonia. Exposure to extreme cold can also lead to complications like frostbite and hypothermia, especially for those with reduced circulation due to treatment side effects.
Cancer survivors often experience joint pain and stiffness as a result of treatment-induced inflammation or side effects like peripheral neuropathy. Cold temperatures tend to exacerbate these conditions, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility. Additionally, reduced exposure to sunlight during winter may cause a drop in vitamin D levels, which are essential for immune function and bone health.
Managing Risks During the Winter
To navigate the challenges posed by winter, cancer patients can adopt several strategies to protect their health. Keeping the body warm is crucial. Wearing multiple layers of clothing, using heating devices indoors, and avoiding prolonged exposure to cold weather can help prevent complications like frostbite and hypothermia.
Maintaining a strong immune system is vital during this time. A well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and antioxidant-rich foods can help boost immunity. Incorporating foods fortified with vitamin D or taking supplements, as prescribed by a doctor, can address seasonal deficiencies.
Preventing infections is another critical step. Cancer patients should prioritize hygiene by washing their hands regularly, avoiding crowded spaces, and staying up-to-date with seasonal vaccinations, such as flu shots. Staying hydrated and using humidifiers can also help combat dry air, which can irritate respiratory passages and skin.
Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being
The colder months, combined with the physical toll of cancer treatment, can also affect mental health. Seasonal affective disorder, characterized by feelings of depression during winter, can exacerbate the emotional challenges that many cancer patients face. Engaging in regular physical activity, such as indoor yoga or light exercises, can help improve mood and circulation. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, and counselling can also provide emotional support during this difficult time.
Road to Recovery
For cancer patients, managing the effects of cold weather requires a proactive approach. Taking steps to stay warm, maintain immunity, and prioritize mental health can make a significant difference in their overall well-being. It is equally important to stay in close communication with healthcare providers, who can offer tailored advice and interventions to address individual risks during the winter months.
While winter poses unique challenges, it is also an opportunity to focus on self-care and resilience. With the right precautions, cancer patients can navigate the season safely and continue their journey toward recovery.
Timely Surgical Intervention is Key to Stroke Recovery
Dr Sumit Goyal Neurosurgeon and Group Director Neurointerventionist, Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida
Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, and its prevalence is increasing in India, particularly with the rise in risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, and sedentary lifestyles. When a stroke occurs, every second counts.
Immediate medical intervention can make the difference between a full recovery and long-term disability. While medical management is crucial, in some cases, advanced treatment options like neurosurgery become necessary to effectively address the condition and improve the patient’s chances of recovery.
The Role of Neurosurgery in Stroke Treatment
Neurosurgery plays a critical role in the management of certain types of strokes. In ischemic strokes, where a blood clot obstructs the flow of blood to the brain, surgical intervention such as thrombectomy can be used to remove the clot and restore blood flow. This procedure must be performed within a few hours of the onset of stroke symptoms to maximize its effectiveness.
In cases of haemorrhagic stroke, surgical intervention is often required to remove blood accumulated within the brain, reducing pressure and preventing further injury. Aneurysm coiling, a minimally invasive procedure, is frequently used to treat brain aneurysms by stabilizing them, reducing the risk of rupture. Additionally, neurosurgeons may repair damaged blood vessels to stop any further bleeding, decreasing the chance of subsequent strokes.
Minimizing Complications and Enhancing Recovery
In addition to emergency neurosurgery, the management of stroke patients often involves a multidisciplinary approach that includes neurocritical care, rehabilitation, and long-term follow-up. Preventing complications such as infections, blood clots, or further strokes is crucial. Post-surgery, patients require intensive care to monitor brain function, maintain adequate oxygen levels, and ensure proper nutrition.
Rehabilitation also plays a significant role in a patient’s recovery. Physiotherapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy can help stroke survivors regain lost functions, improve mobility, and manage daily activities independently.
Prevention and Awareness
The best approach to stroke management is prevention. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, controlling blood pressure, and avoiding smoking can significantly reduce the risk of stroke. Regular health check-ups and early detection of risk factors like high cholesterol or atrial fibrillation can also help prevent stroke.
In regions with high stroke prevalence, public awareness campaigns are essential to educate the population about stroke symptoms, risk factors, and the importance of timely medical intervention. The quicker the treatment, the better the chances of minimizing brain damage and achieving a successful recovery.
Road to Recovery
Neurosurgery, in combination with other medical and rehabilitation treatments, is instrumental in improving outcomes for stroke patients. The ability to restore blood flow, remove blood clots, and relieve pressure on the brain provides patients with a higher chance of surviving the stroke and regaining lost functions.