'Not just indigestion': A life-saving decision
In episode one of Alice Roberts: Our Hospital Through Time, we see 70-year-old Nigel admitted to St Bartholomew’s Hospital after experiencing symptoms he’d put down to indigestion.
The six-part documentary series, presented by Professor Alice Roberts, explores over 900 years of history at Barts, blending medieval medicine with modern clinical practice.
Nigel’s story offers a powerful real-time insight into contemporary cardiac care within one of the world’s oldest hospitals.
In the episode Cathy, Nigel’s wife, comments: “We both thought it would be indigestion. The consultant said to me, ‘If I had money for every patient who’s told me that.’”
When Nigel’s chest discomfort didn’t settle, they sought medical help. Tests quickly confirmed an acute myocardial infarction (AMI) - a heart attack caused by a blocked coronary artery. He was taken urgently to the cardiac catheterisation laboratory (cath lab), where a live X-ray identified the blockage. The artery was reopened using a small balloon, and a stent - a tiny metal mesh tube - was inserted to hold it open and restore blood flow.
Nigel remembers the reassurance of the team: “I am quite amazed at the whole process. They were friendly with me and made me - relaxed is perhaps too strong - but made me feel better than I otherwise would have been!”
The procedure was successful. The blocked vessel was reopened quickly, limiting heart damage and stabilising Nigel’s condition.
Reflecting on the experience, Cathy added: “It just goes to show, when something feels wrong, do something about it!”
Nigel’s care also reflects the wider improvements within the cath labs at Barts Heart Centre. Quality improvement initiatives have enhanced efficiency, safety, and patient experience.
Recent improvement initiatives have increased productivity, with interventional lab activity rising from an average of 4.5 to 5 patients per lab per day, equating to an additional 8 -10 patients treated per week.
The introduction of StatSeal, a powder dressing used to quickly control bleeding, has enabled patients to go home earlier, improving recovery and patient flow.
In 2025 alone, 11,511 patients were treated, with over 98% reporting a positive experience.
Catch up on Alice Roberts: Our Hospital Through Time Season 1