Unlike conventional ones these stents unclog the artery without leaving behind any metal said Dr S A Merchant a consultant interventional cardiologist who has been practising for more than two decades in Mumbai.

Dr Merchant was in Oman recently to discuss with authorities how the technique can be used in procedures for cardiac treatment in the sultanate. 'We are looking for collaboration with Omani authorities so that we can use soluble stents during heart procedures in Oman as well. I get scores of patients in Mumbai who are from GCC' Dr Merchant said.

'I have been researching for 25 years on how to treat heart diseases without an open heart surgery. I innovated the technique of using medicated soluble stents. These stents melt over a period of time. The heart develops normal collagen and smooth muscles as if God has given a new piece of artery. I have performed 500 procedures using soluble stents.'

Listing the advantages of using soluble stents over cardiac bypass surgeries Dr Merchant said 'There is no need for incisions general anaesthesia or blood transfusions when inserting these soluble stents. Only an overnight hospital stay is required and patients can watch the surgery being performed on screen.'

According to WHO data published in 2014 16.57 per cent of the total deaths in Oman (1438) have happened due to coronary heart diseases. He added 'I feel heart diseases are a rising problem in Asia and Arab countries. Diabetes high cholesterol high blood pressure due to greasy salty fatty food and obesity are some of the reasons why people suffer from heart diseases and cardiac blockages.'

Usually blockages below 70 per cent are treated with medication and lifestyle changes while more severe cases can be treated mechanically with angioplasty or a bypass surgery. Besides soluble stents Dr Merchant is also involved in a public awareness campaign to help people live a longer and happier life.

'I am also running a programme to help improvise the heart's function with the help of Cardio Resync Device. It improves efficiency of the heart and prevents failure.' Speaking on the increasing heart problems in GCC he said 'Heart problems are common in younger generation today. Plaques can get deposited in arteries of even a two year old. So I feel it is important to make changes to your lifestyle and conduct mandatory annual check-ups. Parents should teach children the importance of staying fit.'