Houma, LA CIS Cardiologist 1st In World To Use New Device To Tread PAD
HOUMA, LA – Dr. Craig Walker, founder, president and medical director of Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS), was the first in the world to use the Turbo-Power laser atherectomy catheter by Spectranetics for in-stent restenosis in peripheral arteries.
The Turbo-Power laser atherectomy catheter is the latest technology in treatment for in-stent restenosis, which refers to the narrowing of a previously-stented vessel with restricted blood flow. The catheter allows for better directional control and a larger opening in the blood vessel. The tip rotates by the use of an external remote and uses radiofrequency ablation to open the vessel. The procedure took place in the cath lab at Terrebonne General Medical Center.
This is the fourth “first” in-man procedure done by Dr. Walker, the others being:
• First in the world to place a stent in a patient having a heart attack (1989)
• First in the world to place IDEV Nitinol Stent in a human in Germany (2006)
• First in the world to use the Turbo-Booster Laser System in Germany (2006)
“The purpose is to clear out the vessel and make a bigger channel,” explained Dr. Walker. “This is a major advancement over prior devices. We had a great result with a great flow in a big channel.”
Founded by Dr. Craig Walker in 1983, CIS is the largest single specialty cardiology practice in Louisiana. CIS cardiologists represent nearly every specialty in heart and vascular medicine. CIS is a world-leader in preventing, detecting and treating cardiovascular disease. The institute offers a comprehensive heart and vascular program with specialized medical professionals trained in nuclear cardiology, electrophysiology, prevention services, and lipid management, as well as interventional cardiovascular procedures. CIS is also world-renowned for making significant advancements in the development of non-surgical treatments to treat peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
CIS has earned international acclaim as a leader of research, development and education. Dr. Walker is chairman of New Cardiovascular Horizons, the largest medical education meeting of its type. With a team of more than 500 dedicated members, CIS provides comprehensive cardiovascular care to communities throughout Louisiana, as well as national and international patients, at its 15 clinics. CIS consistently positions itself at the forefront of technology by providing the most up-to-date technology coupled with compassionate care. This mission has guided the institute for more than 32 years of service to south Louisiana.
