Laser Treatment for Critical Limb Ischemia

Laser technology is well-suited for the treatment of critical limb ischemia (CLI) and offers a favorable outcome compared with other therapies, according to a session during the Paris Course on Revascularization (PCR), held in Paris (France) in May 2005.

A PCR Focus Session included reviews on the treatment of lesions above and below the knee. Featured were data and case reviews on the excimer laser by doctors from Belgium, Germany, and the United States. New economic data on amputation as well as data from a study commissioned by Spectranetics Corp. (Colorado Springs, CO, USA) were presented by David Allie, M.D., of the Cardiovascular Institute of the South (Houma, LA, USA). This study concluded that the utilization of the excimer laser for revascularization could provide important clinical and economic cost savings in treating CLI. This study was published in the 2005 issue of the journal Euro Intervention.

Spectranetics is a developer and marketer of laser systems, including its CVX-300 excimer laser, which is the only system approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for multiple cardiovascular procedures, including coronary atherectomy and the removal of problematic pacemaker and defibrillator leads. During the PCR conference, attendees viewed a live case where the company's new development-stage Prima 0.014-inch laser wire was used in a very difficult chronic total occlusion in a coronary artery. The wire successfully crossed the proximal cap of the blockage that was not crossable by standard mechanical wires.

"This year's Euro PCR, with its record attendance, marked a prestigious gathering where Spectranetics enjoyed heightened visibility, particularly in the treatment of peripheral arterial disease,” observed John G. Schulte, president and CEO of Spectranetics. "Of note, the Focus Session co-sponsored by Spectranetics on treating patients with critical limb ischemia was standing room only, with more than 300 physicians in attendance.”





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