In the aftermath of COVID-19, symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness, and chest discomfort have often been dismissed as part of the long-haul recovery. So, when a 56-year-old gentleman with a history of hypertension and hypothyroidismpresented with breathlessness on exertion and chest heaviness, it initially seemed like another textbook case of post-COVID sequelae.

No immediate red flags were raised—until a positive stress test prompted further investigation.

A Coronary Angiography (CAG) revealed a far more dangerous picture:

• Critical occlusion in the Right Coronary Artery (RCA)
• 100% block in the distal Posterior Descending Artery (PDA)
• Chronic Total Occlusion (CTO) in the mid Left Anterior Descending (LAD) artery

Given the urgency, Dr. Priya Palimkar performed a Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty (PTCA) to the RCA. The procedure was successful, but the LAD showed severe calcification, and stenting it during the same sitting was not feasible.

Not one to leave a challenge unresolved, Dr. Palimkar re-attempted LAD angioplasty a month later, this time armed with Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) imaging. The detailed imaging allowed for precise navigation through the hardened segment. Stents were successfully deployed, and the patient was discharged on dual antiplatelet therapy with clear instructions and follow-up.

Today, the patient is back to living a full, active life—and far from the ticking cardiac time bomb he unknowingly carried.

This case is a strong reminder: not every post-COVID symptom is benign. Sometimes, it’s the heart silently signaling distress, and only timely investigation can prevent a major cardiac event.