Jaya's situation 'extremely grave', says London specialist

Chennai, Dec 5: The condition of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa is "extremely grave", the London doctor who is being consulted for her treatment said today.

"Unfortunately, and in spite of the progress she had made, her underlying health conditions inevitably meant that the risk of further problems always remained," Dr Richard Beale said in a statement.

"The situation is extremely grave, but I can confirm that everything possible is being done to give her the best chance of surviving this shocking event. She is being cared for by a highly multi-disciplinary team and is now on extra corporeal life support.

"This is the most advanced level of support available and is the approach the best centres internationally would take in this situation. That this technology is available in Apollo Chennai reflects the high degree of expertise of this centre and, that at all times, Madam has received exceptional care from Apollo and AIIMS care team, which are equal of any in the world," he said.

He said his prayers and thoughts were with the Chief Minister, her family, her carers and the people of Tamil Nadu "at this very difficult time".