HOUMA— Dr. Craig Walker, founder, president and medical director of Cardiovascular Institute of the South, was the first in the state, and only 1 in 4 in the nation, to use a new minimally-invasive device to treat a patient with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) at Terrebonne General Medical Center in Houma, LA.
The new device, called the IN.PACT Admiral, is a drug-coated balloon manufactured by Medtronic.
Recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), drug-coated balloons are a breakthrough medical device for the treatment of PAD in the upper leg. PAD occurs when arteries in the thigh and behind the knee become narrowed or blocked from a build-up of plaque inside the artery walls. The device is designed to restore blood flow by reopening the blocked arteries and delivering a medication to the artery wall which clinical studies have shown keeps the artery open longer than other available treatments.
“This device will change the way PAD is treated, as clinical trials have shown that treatment with a drug-coated balloon greatly reduces the need to have a repeat procedure within the next year,” Dr. Walker said. “Early diagnosis and proper treatment can prevent disability and save limbs and lives.”
“This device also particularly useful in women who have smaller arteries and in cases where stents have occluded,” he said.
Many PAD patients do not experience any symptoms. However, some symptoms of PAD may include:
• Open ulcer/wound on the bottom of your foot that does not heal
• Pain in the feet or legs that worsens with walking
• Severe cramping in your calf after exercising that goes away with rest
• Discoloration of the legs/feet
• Numbness or coldness in legs/feet
• Pale, shiny skin
Those most at risk of having PAD include anyone over the age of 50, especially African Americans, those who smoke or have smoked and those who have diabetes, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol or a personal or family history of vascular disease, heart attack, or stroke.
A simple, painless ultrasound can test the blood flow in your legs to determine your risk of PAD.
CIS is a group of cardiologists representing nearly every specialty in heart and circulatory medicine. With a team of nearly 500 dedicated members, CIS serves communities throughout Louisiana, as well as national and international patients, at its 14 clinics. CIS positions itself at the forefront of technology by providing the most up-to-date technology coupled with compassionate care.
