In a landmark medical achievement, doctors at Gleneagles Hospital Parel used a first-of-its-kind advanced heart microcirculation test—Coronary Flow Reserve (CFR), also known as CoroFlow—to diagnose and successfully treat a 66-year-old woman suffering from severe chest pain. The breakthrough diagnosis helped doctors avoid an unnecessary stent procedure and provide targeted treatment instead.
Severe Symptoms, But No Clear Diagnosis
Mrs. Rajni Gaikwad, a resident of Pune, arrived at Gleneagles Hospital with symptoms strongly suggestive of angina. She could barely walk 10 metres without experiencing intense chest heaviness, discomfort, and breathlessness. Consequently, her daily activities became extremely limited, and she grew increasingly anxious about her health.
Given her classic symptoms of heart blockage, the cardiology team proceeded with coronary angiography. However, the test showed only moderate blockages of 50–70 percent—findings that typically do not cause such severe symptoms. Despite this, her distress persisted. Therefore, the team decided to investigate further rather than proceed with angioplasty.
Looking Beyond Conventional Angiography
Dr. Rahul Gupta, Director – Cardiologist at Gleneagles Hospital, explained that routine angiography reveals only about 5 percent of the heart’s blood flow, primarily through the major coronary arteries.
“Nearly 95 percent of the heart’s blood circulation occurs through tiny blood vessels known as the microcirculation,” he said. “These small vessels are not visible on routine angiograms. In some patients, especially women and those with diabetes, these microvessels may not function properly even when major arteries appear only mildly blocked.”
To uncover the hidden cause, the team performed the newly introduced CoroFlow coronary microcirculation assessment—marking one of the first such cases in India and the first in Western India, including Mumbai and Navi Mumbai.
Hidden Microcirculatory Disease Identified
As per the press release, the advanced test revealed that Mrs. Gaikwad suffered from coronary microvascular dysfunction—a condition affecting the heart’s tiny blood vessels. Because these vessels were not functioning properly, her heart muscle received reduced blood flow, leading to chest pain and breathlessness despite the absence of critical blockages in the major arteries.
Importantly, this diagnosis changed the course of treatment. Based on the findings, doctors concluded that angioplasty or bypass surgery would not have benefited her and might have subjected her to unnecessary risk.
Targeted Treatment Brings Relief
Instead of proceeding with stenting, the medical team initiated targeted medical therapy along with personalised lifestyle modifications tailored to microcirculatory disease. As a result, her symptoms gradually improved. She was discharged in stable condition after her treatment plan was optimised and continues to do well on follow-up.
Today, she walks comfortably, performs her daily activities independently, and has regained her confidence and quality of life.
A Crucial Advancement for Women and Diabetic Patients
Dr. Rahul Gupta highlighted that India’s growing diabetes burden makes such diagnostic advancements particularly significant.
“In many diabetic patients and women, chest pain can occur even when angiography appears normal or shows only mild blockages. Traditional tests may miss microcirculatory disease. This advanced assessment allows us to determine whether chest pain is truly heart-related and choose the most appropriate therapy.”
He further emphasised that failing to diagnose such conditions on time could lead to persistent symptoms, repeated hospital visits, worsening heart function, and reduced quality of life.
Patient Shares Her Experience
“I was living in constant fear because even small tasks like walking to another room would leave me breathless and in pain,” said Mrs. Gaikwad. “Despite multiple tests, I did not have clear answers, which was very distressing. The doctors did not give up. After the correct treatment, my pain reduced significantly. I am deeply thankful to the team for sparing me from an unnecessary stenting procedure and giving me my life back.”
Strengthening Cardiac Care in India
Dr. Bipin Chevale, CEO of Gleneagles Hospital Parel, stated that this case marks a major milestone in cardiac care.
“With the availability of advanced microcirculation testing, patients with unexplained chest pain now have access to more accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment. We are proud to be among the first in India to introduce this technology, reaffirming our commitment to delivering the latest innovations in heart care.”
A Step Toward Precision Cardiology
This case underscores a critical message: angiography alone does not always tell the full story. By evaluating the heart’s microcirculation, doctors can now diagnose previously hidden causes of chest pain, prevent unnecessary procedures, and provide precise, patient-specific treatment—especially for women and individuals living with diabetes.