CIS & IMC Are First in Acadiana to Use New Dissolvable Esprit™ System to Treat Artery Disease Below the Knee
NEW IBERIA, LA – Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) and Iberia Medical Center (IMC) are the first in Acadiana to use the new FDA-approved Esprit™ BTK (Below the Knee) Everolimus Eluting Resorbable Scaffold System, a first-of-its-kind dissolvable stent to treat chronic limb-threatening ischemia in the lower legs. The first procedure was performed by CIS interventional cardiologist Dr. Krishna Nagendran on November 19 in the newly renovated cath lab at IMC.
Manufactured by Abbott, the Esprit™ BTK System is implanted during a minimally-invasive procedure and is designed to keep tibial arteries open while delivering the drug Everolimus to facilitate vessel restoration and protect against future blockages. The system provides support for about three years and then dissolves, as it is made of material similar to sutures or stitches.
Previously, there were no stents or drug-coated balloons in the U.S. that were FDA-approved for use below-the-knee. The standard of care has been balloon angioplasty, where a small balloon is inserted via a catheter to the open the vessel and restore blood flow. However, blockages treated with balloon angioplasty have mixed short- and long-term results, and in some cases, vessels become blocked again.
Dr. Nagendran is proud to pioneer this new technology for patients in Acadiana. “This is a breakthrough for patients who suffer with chronic limb ischemia in the arteries below the knee, which is becoming more prevalent,” he said. “With technology like this, we can improve mobility and decrease the risk of amputations.”
“The addition of this new system for treating peripheral arterial disease represents a significant step in advancing cardiovascular services at Iberia Medical Center and providing treatment options available in our community,” said IMC CEO Dionne Viator.
Chronic limb-threatening ischemia is a late stage of peripheral artery disease, referring to vascular disease in the legs. Symptoms may include painful cramping during exercise, sores, numbness, coldness, discoloration or a weak pulse in the foot or leg. Those with symptoms should consult with their cardiologist.
About Cardiovascular Institute of the South
Founded by Dr. Craig Walker in 1983, Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) is a world-leader in preventing, detecting and treating cardiovascular and peripheral vascular disease. CIS offers a comprehensive heart and vascular program with expert physicians trained in many specialties, including internal medicine, nuclear cardiology, electrophysiology, lipid management, coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, structural heart and valve disease, venous disease and interventional procedures. CIS has earned international acclaim as a pioneer of research, development and education, as well as an innovator in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease. With a dedicated team of more than 1,075 team members, CIS provides comprehensive cardiovascular care at 22 locations across Louisiana and Mississippi, with nine telemedicine programs. CIS has also been recognized by Modern Healthcare as a Best Place to Work in Healthcare for five years in a row. CIS remains at the forefront of technology, providing the highest-quality, compassionate care. This mission has guided the institute for more than 40 years of excellence. For more information about CIS, call 1-800-425-2565 or visit www.cardio.com.
About Iberia Medical Center
Iberia Medical Center is an award-winning hospital committed to improving the health and quality of life in Iberia Parish and surrounding communities. From humble beginnings as an endeavor of the local Lions Club, Iberia Medical Center was created through the establishment of Hospital Service District No.1 in 1951.
Today, Iberia Medical Center’s two campuses, Main Campus and North Campus, are home to over 30 medical specialties provided by over 100 physicians and is the only acute care hospital in Iberia Parish.
Specialty care includes surgical services, the Women’s Diagnostic Center featuring 3D mammography, PET/CT, 14-bed inpatient rehabilitation unit, advanced wound care unit, new catheterization lab, robotic joint replacement, infusion center, outpatient physical rehabilitation center, obstetrics, inpatient and outpatient behavioral health and emergency departments at both campuses.
Iberia Medical also provides services through the Jeanerette Rural Health Clinic, Cancer Center of Acadiana-New Iberia Clinic, and IMC Physician Network. Discover more at www.iberiamedicalcenter.com.
