India
Doctors Debate Chief Minister’s Call to Cut Unnecessary Angioplasties
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan’s recent remarks at a function urging avoidance of unnecessary angioplasty sparked strong reactions from the medical community. Professor and Head of Cardiology Rajesh Gopalan Nair of Government Medical College Hospital, Kozhikode, posted on Facebook praising the CM for highlighting a truth. The post triggered a flood of comments from doctors and the public. While some praised Dr. Rajesh for speaking plainly, many physicians expressed disappointment with his stance.
Dr. Rajesh clarified that patients arriving in the emergency department with suspected heart attacks should not distrust their doctors, as immediate angioplasty may be required. He explained that a second opinion could be sought when angioplasty is suggested, and warned the public against treating every doctor or hospital with suspicion. He emphasized that angioplasty should be performed only when clinically indicated and properly documented.
Despite widespread criticism of the CM’s “unsubstantiated” statement, Dr. Rajesh remained firm that some procedures performed in hospitals were not warranted. On Monday, the Interventional Cardiology Council of Kerala (ICCK) issued a statement urging that public concerns about unnecessary procedures should not delay life‑saving treatment during a heart‑attack emergency. The council supported evidence‑based, ethical practice and the need for clear clinical indications for every intervention.
ICCK president Rajesh T. noted that public discussion should distinguish between elective procedures in stable patients and primary angioplasty during an acute heart attack, where time is critical. According to statewide ICCK registry data presented at the council’s last annual conference, more than 70% of angioplasties in Kerala were performed in acute or emergency situations. The council welcomed discussions aimed at strengthening evidence‑based care, transparency, and public confidence in the health‑care system.
ICCK cautioned that a general atmosphere of mistrust surrounding cardiac procedures could have unintended consequences, especially when patients develop severe chest pain or other symptoms suggestive of a heart attack.
Published – October 06, 2026 07:00 am IST
Frequently asked questions
What did Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan say about angioplasty?
He urged avoidance of unnecessary angioplasty, calling for clinicians to perform the procedure only when clinically indicated and properly documented.
What stance did the Interventional Cardiology Council of Kerala take?
The ICCK issued a statement urging that public concerns about unnecessary procedures should not delay life‑saving treatment during a heart‑attack emergency, supporting evidence‑based practice.
What percentage of angioplasties in Kerala are performed in acute or emergency situations?
According to ICCK registry data, more than 70% of angioplasties in Kerala were performed in acute or emergency situations.