Need a doctor?
Leading the way with new stent treatment for PVD
Thursday, January 24, 2019
|
Heart & Vascular
If you’re among the more than 8 million nationwide who suffer from peripheral vascular disease (PVD) and need treatment close to home, there’s good news. Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus received early access to a new FDA-approved stent treatment that’s been shown to relieve pain, ulceration and decreased mobility that are often associated with PVD. When left untreated, it increases a person’s risk for heart attack and stroke, and can lead to leg amputation in the most severe cases, so early intervention is key.
The Eluvia stent system, produced by Boston Scientific, gradually releases a medication to the main arteries supplying blood to the legs and other extremities. Its clinical trials revealed superior results in treating leg blockages compared to similar products on the market. The Kent Campus is among only 50 hospitals in the U.S. and just five along the East Coast to have access to this cutting-edge device.
One in 20 Americans is estimated to have PVD, also known as peripheral artery disease (PAD), caused by a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries that restricts blood flow. Many experience the discomfort and difficulty walking caused by this common circulatory condition and don’t even know they have it. The first signs, including aches, cramps and fatigue when walking that typically go away with rest, and weakness or discoloration in the legs or feet, should be a trigger to see a doctor. People age 50 and older and those with high cholesterol, hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity are at greater risk of developing PVD.
“Because of the muscles and bones in the legs, blockages there are traditionally harder to treat with stenting than are those in the heart. The improved technology of the Eluvia stent has a proven track record of providing relief from PVD symptoms and preventing further complications,” said Cardiovascular and Electrophysiology Lab Medical Director John Shuck, MD, of Bayhealth Cardiology Consultants. “We’re thrilled to have access to it to help countless patients with this condition.”
Visit the Bayhealth Cardiovascular page to learn more about Bayhealth’s heart and vascular services.
The Eluvia stent system, produced by Boston Scientific, gradually releases a medication to the main arteries supplying blood to the legs and other extremities. Its clinical trials revealed superior results in treating leg blockages compared to similar products on the market. The Kent Campus is among only 50 hospitals in the U.S. and just five along the East Coast to have access to this cutting-edge device.
One in 20 Americans is estimated to have PVD, also known as peripheral artery disease (PAD), caused by a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries that restricts blood flow. Many experience the discomfort and difficulty walking caused by this common circulatory condition and don’t even know they have it. The first signs, including aches, cramps and fatigue when walking that typically go away with rest, and weakness or discoloration in the legs or feet, should be a trigger to see a doctor. People age 50 and older and those with high cholesterol, hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity are at greater risk of developing PVD.
“Because of the muscles and bones in the legs, blockages there are traditionally harder to treat with stenting than are those in the heart. The improved technology of the Eluvia stent has a proven track record of providing relief from PVD symptoms and preventing further complications,” said Cardiovascular and Electrophysiology Lab Medical Director John Shuck, MD, of Bayhealth Cardiology Consultants. “We’re thrilled to have access to it to help countless patients with this condition.”
Visit the Bayhealth Cardiovascular page to learn more about Bayhealth’s heart and vascular services.