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Overview
Dr. Rakesh Gopal is a distinguished cardiologist based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, with over 22 years of experience in the field of cardiology. He is highly regarded for his expertise in interventional cardiology, specializing in complex coronary procedures, including angioplasty for triple vessel disease and left main coronary artery disease. Dr. Gopal has extensive experience with challenging cases, utilizing advanced techniques such as the Rotablator for coronary micro-drilling and intra-vascular lithotripsy. He is adept at angioplasty for heavily calcified vessels and bifurcation disease, as well as interventions for chronic totally occluded arteries and revascularization of diseased bypass grafts. His skills extend to peripheral angioplasty, addressing limb-saving measures, renal, and carotid angioplasties.
In addition to his interventional prowess, Dr. Gopal is a trained cardio oncologist, uniquely specializing in managing cardiovascular issues in cancer patients. He provides comprehensive assessment and treatment to ensure the safety and continuity of curative cancer therapy, focusing on the prevention, monitoring, and management of cardiac complications related to cancer.
Dr. Gopal's impressive qualifications include a Medical Degree (MD) in General Medicine, fellowship in cardiology (FRCP) from Glasgow, and a DNB in Cardiology. He has honed his skills with specialized training in trans aortic valve implantation at Mehmet Akif Ersoy Hospital in Istanbul and undertook angioplasty training at Washington Adventist Hospital in the USA and Asan Medical Centre in Seoul, Korea. Additionally, he holds certification from Harvard University in cardio-oncology, demonstrating his commitment to advancing cardiac care alongside oncology.
Fluent in multiple languages including English, Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi, Odia, Bengali, and Assamese, Dr. Gopal is well-equipped to cater to a diverse patient demographic, ensuring clear communication and compassionate care.
Experience
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In Clinical Research
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Certified in Good clinical practice
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Good knowledge of computers and experience liasing with software firms in development of high end operational medical software currently in use at major institutes of cardiology. Has developed and tested own software.
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All duties and responsibilities as an investigator in international randomized clinical trials
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Experience in conducting studies in collaboration with three International Universities: Maxplanc University, Clinique Pastuer, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine and Indian Council of Medical Research.
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Editor of the book Cardiovascular Interventional Trials Update, published by Asia Pacific Interventional Cardiology India Educational Trust and Mathew Foundation.
In Diagnostics
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Right and Left Heart Catheterization
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Exercise Testing
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Echo Cardiography – Trans Thoracic, Trans Esophageal, Contrast Echo, Stress Echo Cardiography and Myocardial Strain Rate Imaging.
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Cardiac CT and CT Coronary Angiography
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As Investigator / Co Investigator
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Aristotle study
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Pixel Trial, randomized trial of direct stenting versus pre dilatation and stenting in small vessel coronary disease
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E Cypher registry
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Decode Trial, comparison of Sirolimus drug eluting stent with non coated stents in diabetic patients
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Indicor study on comparison of Paclitaxel eluting Taxus stent and Coroflex please stent
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Family study of patients of Indian origin with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and novel mutations, in association with Max Plank Institute of Physiological
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Research of Germany.
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Comparison of Vascular Closure Devices, Perclose, Angioseal, Closure PAD versus digital
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compression.
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Project on prevention of contrast induced nephropathy in patients receiving high dose radio contrast agents - Ongoing
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Randomized trial of weekly oral Azithromycin versus daily oral Penicillin in prevention of recurrence of rheumatic fever. Randomized controlled trial of oral Pefloxacin , Amoxycilline, Cotrimoxazole in respiratory tract infections.
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Immunological characterization of Brugia malayi micro filariae, in association with London school of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.
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Prospective study of haemotological role in snake bites.
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Research assistant in Filariasis Chemotherapy Unit, Indian Council of Medical Research FCU, Medical College, Alleppey.
Interventional Cardiology
Proficiently skilled in All Complex Coronary Interventions, including Rotablation, Bifurcation Angioplasty, Chronic Total Occlusions, Left Main Stenting, Cutting Balloon, IABP assisted procedures, Distal Protection Devices, Graft Interventions and Primary PCI.
Peripheral Angioplasty, Renal Angioplasty, Carotid Interventions. Expertise in limb salvage procedures and below popliteal disease angioplasty.
Interventions for Valvular Heart Disease, Mitral, Aortic, Pulmonary Balloon Valvotomies, Initiation for Trans Aortic Valve replacement.
Good expertise with Trans Septal puncture.
Memberships
· Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow
· American College of Cardiology
· European Society of Cardiology
· American Heart Association
· Cardiological Society of India
· Asia Pacific Society for Interventional Cardiology
CERTIFICATIONS
· CSI - 2013, 2014
· CSI Prevent - 2014, 2015
· India Live - 2015, 2017
· TIC - 2015, 2016
· National Interventional Council - 2013,2014, 2015, 2016
· IJCTO - 2012, 2015, 2016
· Ttrii - 2015
· ACVS India - 2012, 2014
· AICT & Oriental Congress - 2009
· AICT - 2012
· SGPGI Conclave - 2014
· Back to Basics SCTIMST - 2014, 2015, 2016
· Calicut Cardiology Club - 2016
· IMA Calicut, Thalasery, Kannur - 2016
· Periyar Medfest - 2016
· ISAR - 2016
· ISAR - 2016
· Webinars NOACS University Hospital Switzerland - 2016
· Society for Heart Failure and Transplantation - 2016
Awards
- Acute Urinary Retention: Tamsulosin Vs.Alfuzosin.Results of a Randomised trial in 40 patients. South Zone Urological conference, July 2005, Bangalore
- Augmentation Cystoplasty for Valve Bladder- Madras Urological Society, January 2004, Chennai
- BMG substitution urethroplasty for BXO strictures- Urological society on India National Conference- Varanasi Feb.2006
- ESWL for lower calyceal stone- Poster – World Congress of Endourology, Mumbai, November 2004
Research and Publication
Certified in Good clinical practice
Good knowledge of computers and experience liasing with software firms in development of high end operational medical software currently in use at major institutes of cardiology. Has developed and tested own software.
All duties and responsibilities as an investigator in international randomized clinical trials.
Experience in conducting studies in collaboration with three International Universities: Maxplanc University, Clinique Pastuer, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine and Indian Council of Medical Research.
Editor of the book Cardiovascular Interventional Trials Update, published by Asia Pacific Interventional Cardiology India Educational Trust and Mathew Foundation.
Special Interests
Expertise Highlights
Rotablation Coronary micro drilling for blocks that can’t be opened by balloons due to heavy concretions and long standing block especially for failed bypass patients.
Bifurcation angioplasty for arteries that have sizeable branches that could be in jeopardy by conventional angioplasty
Angioplasty for lower limb critical ischemia, foot ulcer for surgical rejects with below popliteal disease. Limb salvage angioplasties for patients posted for amputation.
Oncocardiology Center: Established the first Oncocardiology Center in the Asia Pacific Region at Apollo Specialty Hospital, Chennai
List of Treatments
- Rheumatic Heart Disease Treatment
- Preoperative Treatment
- Bad Breath Halitosis Treatment
List of Conditions Treated
- Barth Syndrome
- Preventive Care Of Heart Lung Diseases
- Andersen Tawil Syndrome
- Screening For Coronary Artery Disease
- Screening For Valvulae Heart Disease
- Cardiovascular Disease Prevention
- Dilated cardiomyopathy
- Irregular Heartbeat
- Orthostatic Hypotension
- Patent foramen ovale
- Acute Aortic Dissection
- Acute Pericarditis
- Plication Of The Inferior Vena Cava
- Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Dr. Rakesh Gopal's qualifications?
Dr. Rakesh Gopal holds an MBBS, MD in General Medicine, DM in Cardiology, and a DNB.
What is Dr. Rakesh Gopal's specialization?
Dr. Rakesh Gopal specializes in Cardiology.
How many years of experience does Dr. Rakesh Gopal have?
Dr. Rakesh Gopal has 25 years of experience in cardiology.
Who is Dr. Rakesh Gopal?
Dr. Rakesh Gopal is a Cardiologist with 25 years of experience. He earned his MBBS from Madras University, Chennai in 1999, MD in General Medicine from Madras University, Chennai in 2002, and DM in Cardiology from Madras University, Chennai in 2004. He is a member of the Indian Academy of Echocardiography.
What does a Heart Specialist do?
Cardiologists diagnose and treat cardiovascular diseases. Their expertise includes assessing heart health and interpreting diagnostic tools such as electrocardiograms.
When should I consult a cardiologist?
Consult a cardiologist if your doctor recommends it due to symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or hypertension. Cardiovascular health is crucial; timely consultation ensures proper diagnosis and treatment.
What to expect during my first appointment with a cardiologist?
Your initial consultation with a cardiologist will involve a comprehensive review of your medical history and risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The appointment includes assessment of your blood pressure, heart rate, and an electrocardiogram (ECG). A thorough cardiovascular examination will also be conducted.
How do cardiologists detect blocked arteries?
Cardiologists utilize various diagnostic tests to identify blocked arteries, including cholesterol screening, electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-ray, coronary CT angiography, ultrasound, echocardiogram, and cardiac catheterization (angiogram).
Can I see a cardiologist directly?
Direct consultation with a cardiologist is recommended if you have a family history of early-onset heart disease (below age 55 for men and 65 for women). A cardiologist can evaluate your risk factors and provide appropriate treatment and management.
Does a cardiologist perform heart surgery?
No. A cardiologist determines the need for cardiac surgery. Cardiovascular surgeons are specialists who perform operations on the heart, blood vessels, and lungs.
What are Dr. Rakesh Gopal's medical qualifications?
Dr. Rakesh Gopal holds an MBBS, MD in General Medicine, DM in Cardiology, and a DNB.
What is Dr. Rakesh Gopal's medical specialty?
Dr. Rakesh Gopal specializes in Cardiology.
How many years of experience does Dr. Rakesh Gopal have?
Dr. Rakesh Gopal has 25 years of experience in cardiology. His extensive experience spans various medical settings.
Who is Dr. Rakesh Gopal?
Dr. Rakesh Gopal is a Cardiologist with 25 years of experience. He earned his MBBS from Madras University, Chennai in 1999, MD in General Medicine from Madras University, Chennai in 2002, and DM in Cardiology from Madras University, Chennai in 2004. He is a member of the Indian Academy of Echocardiography.
What does a heart specialist do?
Cardiologists diagnose and treat cardiovascular diseases. Their expertise includes assessing heart health and interpreting diagnostic tests such as electrocardiograms.
When should I consult a cardiologist?
Consult a cardiologist if your doctor recommends it due to symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or hypertension. Early detection of cardiovascular disease is crucial for effective heart health management.
What to expect during my first appointment with a cardiologist?
Your first cardiology appointment will involve a review of your medical history and risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The doctor will assess your blood pressure, heart rate, and perform an electrocardiogram (ECG). A comprehensive cardiovascular examination will also be conducted.
How do cardiologists diagnose blocked arteries?
Cardiologists utilize various diagnostic tests to identify blocked arteries, including cholesterol screening, electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-ray, coronary CT angiography, echocardiogram, ultrasound, and angiogram. These tests help assess heart health and detect arterial blockages.
Can I see a cardiologist directly?
Yes, you may consult a cardiologist directly if you have a family history of early-onset heart disease (under 55 for men, under 65 for women). A cardiologist can assess your risk and provide appropriate treatment and management for genetically related heart conditions.
Does a cardiologist perform heart surgery?
No. A cardiologist determines the need for heart surgery. Cardiovascular surgeons perform operations on the heart, blood vessels, and lungs.
