Dr. Charles Thompson, interventional cardiologist at Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS), is the first in Louisiana to use the Auryon Laser Atherectomy System by AngioDynamics, Inc. in a hospital setting to treat peripheral artery disease in the legs. The procedure took place on October 30 at Lane Regional Medical Center.
The Auryon Atherectomy System uses laser technology to deliver powerful treatment for peripheral artery lesions and occlusions in the legs. It is the first laser atherectomy system to efficiently treat lesions of any type, severity, length, or location (above and below the knee), with minimal impact on vessel walls. It is the only system capable of delivering short, high-powered pulsed-laser energy to effectively treat peripheral artery disease while preserving the vessel wall.
“The ease of set up and easy tracking of the catheter makes for rapid deployment of the technology during the procedure,” said Dr. Thompson. “For the patient, this is a limb- and life-saving procedure due to the efficiency of plaque removal to open the artery.”
Peripheral vascular disease, including artery and vein disease, affects more than 50 million people in the United States. Peripheral artery disease specifically prevents blood flow to the legs and feet, causing significant pain and limited mobility, and in severe cases, leads to the need for surgery or amputation. Symptoms of peripheral artery disease in the legs include pain or cramping after activity, numbness, coldness, sores or ulcers that won’t heal, discoloration, hair loss, shiny skin or a weak pulse.
For more information on this condition, or to schedule an appointment with a CIS cardiologist, visit www.cardio.com.
