Advanced imaging can reduce risk of cardiac complications after angioplasty: experts

Advanced imaging techniques that enable cardiologists to view coronary arteries internally during angioplasty can lower the risk of future cardiac complications and the need for repeat procedures, especially in patients with intricate blockages, according to experts. This importance was emphasized at the 10th annual conference of the Society for Coronary Imaging and Physiology (SCIP India), which kicked off on Saturday (November 14, 2026).

SCIP India's president, Dr. Dhiman Kahali, highlighted how advanced imaging is revolutionizing the treatment of complex coronary blockages. "A successful angioplasty isn't just about opening a blocked artery; it's about keeping it open and safeguarding patients from potential complications," he stated.

Organising chairman Dr. Ali Faizal explained that while traditional angiograms identify where an artery is narrow, advanced imaging provides insights into the underlying nature of the blockage, enabling doctors to devise more effective treatments. Dr. P.K. Asokan, the conference's organising secretary, noted that international cardiology guidelines strongly endorse imaging-guided angioplasty for specific complex cases, yet adoption in India still requires improvement.

He stressed that increasing access to the technology, specialized training, and enhanced awareness among cardiologists are crucial.

A major highlight of the scientific sessions was addressing heavily calcified coronary arteries. Discussions centered on intravascular lithotripsy, a technique that employs pressure waves to break down calcium deposits, aiding stent expansion. Other sessions explored complex blockages involving major coronary arteries and their branches, as well as the application of intravascular ultrasound and optical coherence tomography to detect stent failure and recurrent narrowing.

The three-day conference, commencing on Friday (November 13, 2026), featured 23 scientific sessions, 30 clinical case presentations, and 118 national faculty members.