Dr Balamurugan S, Consultant Interventional Cardiology, and Dr A Thomas George, Senior Consultant Internal Medicine, highlight alternate access approach and recovery in 73 year old patient
Chennai, April 2, 2026: SRM Prime Hospital has performed a transcatheter aortic valve replacement procedure using an alternate vascular access route through the right axillary artery in a 73 year old patient with severe aortic stenosis.
The patient presented with decompensated heart failure caused by calcific narrowing of the aortic valve, leading to restricted blood flow and severe breathlessness.
In standard practice, the procedure is performed through arteries in the leg or other conventional access points. However, in this case, all typical routes were unsuitable due to vascular limitations including narrowing and blockages, making the right axillary artery the only viable pathway.
The procedure was led by Dr Balamurugan S, Consultant Interventional Cardiology, along with a multidisciplinary team including specialists in internal medicine, cardiothoracic surgery, anaesthesia, and critical care.
Dr Balamurugan said the team opted for a catheter based valve replacement approach due to the patient’s condition and age, requiring advanced planning and precision due to the complexity of the alternate access route.
The minimally invasive nature of the procedure enabled faster recovery, with the patient discharged within three days and able to resume daily activities.
Dr A Thomas George said elderly patients undergoing such procedures often require careful management of underlying conditions to ensure stability throughout treatment.
Aortic stenosis is a condition commonly seen in older adults and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Early diagnosis and timely intervention play an important role in improving outcomes.
The procedure highlights the role of advanced cardiac techniques and specialised expertise in managing complex cases where conventional approaches are not feasible.
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