November 25, 2024
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.
Request an appointment today with a CIS cardiologist.