Former national team captain and Bangladesh’s star opener, Tamim Iqbal, suddenly fell ill during a match and was rushed to the hospital. Doctors confirmed he had suffered a heart attack and promptly inserted a stent into his blocked artery, saving him from a major cardiac emergency. This incident has sparked public curiosity—how long does it take to place a stent in the heart? The topic is now widely discussed on social media.
The Critical Window for Treatment
Dr. Abrar Kaiser, Assistant Professor of Cardiology at Sir Salimullah Medical College, explains that during a heart attack, time is of the essence. The sooner a patient receives treatment, the better their chances of recovery. While the stent placement (angioplasty) itself doesn’t take long—usually 30 minutes to an hour—the process depends on the patient’s condition and hospital readiness. Internationally, this is the gold standard for treating blocked arteries.
However, in Bangladesh, delays often occur due to late hospital admissions and limited facilities. Not all hospitals have angiography or stent placement capabilities, forcing critical patients to endure longer waits, sometimes worsening their condition.
Tamim’s Emergency Treatment
During a Dhaka Premier League (DPL) match, Tamim suddenly collapsed and was later confirmed to have suffered two heart attacks in quick succession. He was immediately taken to KPG Specialized Hospital in Savar, where doctors performed an emergency angiogram and inserted a stent.
Dr. Rajib, the hospital’s director, shared updates:
“Tamim Iqbal fell ill around 9:30 AM and was brought here. Given his critical condition, we decided against transferring him to Dhaka. After immediate intervention—angiogram, angioplasty, and stent placement—his blocked artery was successfully cleared. Dr. Maruf performed the procedure smoothly. While he is now stable, he remains under close observation as his condition was severe. Full recovery will take time, but we are doing everything possible.”
Swift Decisions Saved Him
BCB director Mahbubul Anam praised the quick decision-making that helped Tamim receive timely care. Meanwhile, Tamim’s official Facebook page detailed his ordeal:
After feeling mild chest pain post-toss, he informed the team physio. Initially thought to be gastric issues, medication was given.
When symptoms worsened, he was taken to a nearby hospital before being moved to BKSP. As his condition deteriorated further, arrangements were made for a helicopter transfer, but due to urgency, he was rushed to KPG Hospital instead.
Heart attack symptoms demand immediate medical attention.
Stent Placement is Quick: The procedure itself is fast, but delays in reaching the hospital can be dangerous.
Hospital Readiness Matters: Not all facilities can perform emergency angioplasty, so knowing where to go is crucial.
Tamim’s case highlights the importance of awareness and prompt action in cardiac emergencies. We wish him a speedy recovery and hope his experience encourages better heart health awareness in Bangladesh.
