CIS Is First in Acadiana to Use CavaClearLaser IVC Filter Retrieval System

JULY 25, 2022 - LAFAYETTE - Dr. Amit Amin, interventional cardiologist at Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS), is the first in Acadiana, and second in the state, to use the Philips CavaClear Advanced Excimer Laser IVC Filter Retrieval System for the removal of an inferior vena cava filter, implanted to prevent blood clots from forming in the legs and traveling to the circulatory system. The procedure took place on July 19 in the catheterization laboratory at Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center.

The first and only FDA-cleared solution for advanced IVC filter removal, this system uses laser technology developed by Philips to give patients a safe and effective treatment option for removal while eliminating the risk of future filter-related complications. IVC filters are placed in the inferior vena cava, the largest vein of the body, to capture blood clots in the legs and abdomen from moving to the lungs. However, research has shown that IVC filters may have long-term complications, such as fracture and travel through the bloodstream to other parts of the body or penetration in adjacent organs. The FDA recommends that physicians remove retrievable IVC filters as soon as they are no longer indicated.

CavaClear uses circumferential tissue ablation to aid in capturing the filter within seconds of laser activation, increasing efficiency during removal and reducing the number of retrieval attempts. The simple and safe design is easy for physicians to integrate into their workflow and reduces the need for high-force retrievals. Laser-assisted IVC filter retrieval has proven success rates of 96-99.4% with low complication rates.

“This system is designed to provide a safe, efficient, and controlled way to remove chronically embedded IVC filters for our patients,” said Dr. Amin. “CIS continues to bring patients new technology and devices to improve the level of care we offer in treating vascular disease.”

Learn more about this retrieval system here.

To schedule an appointment at CIS or find a list of CIS locations, visit www.cardio.com.

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, 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 10 telemedicine programs. CIS has also been recognized by Modern Healthcare as a Best Place to Work in Healthcare for three 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 38 years of excellence.  For more information about CIS, call 1-800-425-2565 or visit www.cardio.com.