Mr. Trinh has a history of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and dyslipidemia spanning many years. In recent months, he reported poor appetite and quick fatigue during exertion and exercise.

Doctor Nguyen Xuan Duy, from the Cardiology Department at Tam Anh Cau Giay General Clinic, diagnosed Mr. Trinh with severe damage to all three main coronary arteries. Without timely intervention, there was a risk of complete vascular blockage, potentially leading to a myocardial infarction at any moment. The patient also had severe narrowing of the left vertebral artery, indicating widespread atherosclerosis throughout his vascular system, not just in the heart.

CT scan results revealed severe damage to all three main coronary arteries supplying the heart. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Mr. Trinh was transferred to Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi, where doctors performed percutaneous coronary intervention to restore blood flow, ensuring effectiveness and safety. During the procedure, the medical team used intravascular ultrasound to precisely assess the location, extent, and characteristics of the lesions. Four stents were placed, successfully reopening the severely narrowed coronary arteries and restoring blood flow to the heart. Following the intervention, signs of myocardial ischemia improved, and Mr. Trinh was discharged after one week. He requires long-term medication and regular follow-up appointments.

According to doctor Duy, in individuals with multiple underlying conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis often progresses silently for many years without causing symptoms. Plaque accumulation gradually narrows the arteries, but the body attempts to adapt by increasing compensatory circulation. Consequently, patients only experience fatigue during exertion, a manifestation of myocardial ischemia.

Early detection allows for timely intervention, reducing the risk of complications. "Stent placement does not mean the disease is completely cured; it only helps to reopen the narrowed segment", doctor Duy stated. He added that if risk factors are not well-controlled, restenosis or new lesions in other vessels can still occur.

Doctor Duy advises individuals over 40, especially those with underlying cardiovascular conditions or who smoke, to undergo regular cardiovascular health check-ups, even in the absence of chest pain symptoms. Everyone should maintain a healthy lifestyle by reducing salt intake, limiting saturated fats and fried foods, increasing green vegetable consumption, managing weight, and exercising regularly.

Ly Nguyen