Med Center Health first hospital in region to perform new vascular surgery
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Med Center Health says it is the first hospital in south-central Kentucky to perform a new vascular surgery.
According to Med Center Health, it is the first hospital in the region to offer the Neuroguard IEP™* system, an FDA-approved medical device used to treat carotid artery disease.
In two clinical studies, officials say the Neuroguard IEP™* system has demonstrated a 99% stroke-free rate through 30 days.
Med Center Health says carotid artery disease is caused by “the narrowing of carotid arteries on either side of the neck that carry blood to the brain” and that it is “responsible for up to a third of all strokes.”
Factors that may increase the risk for CAD include high levels of “bad” cholestrol, or LDL, high blood pressure, diabetes and a history of smoking, health officials say.
“This is the most minimally invasive way to fix potentially stroke-causing plaque in the major blood vessels that carry blood to the brain,” said Dr. Brian Grant, vascular surgeon with Med Center Health Heart, Lung and Vascular Surgeons. “With no surgical incisions, no need for general anesthesia and the ability to go home the same day with minimal restrictions, this approach broadens the number and types of patients we can help. Having this technology gives us another advanced option to tailor treatment to each patient’s needs, which can lead to better outcomes.”
According to health officials, the Neuroguard IEP System is a three-in-one stenting system physicians use to restore blood flow restricted due to CAD. During the procedure, health officials say a stent is placed in the carotid artery to keep blood flowing before a small balloon is inflated to help the stent stay in place against the artery walls.
One important concern during the procedure is the possibility for tiny blood clots, called emboli, officials say, which can get dislodged when working in this area. Med Center Health says the Neuroguard IEP™* system has a proprietary filter that helps trap these emboli.
Capture and removal of these emboli may help to safeguard against stroke, officials say.
“We have a duty to our patients to stay current and provide access to the latest advances in vascular care,” said Grant. “Vascular surgery is so innovative. With each new advancement, we’re expanding what we can do for patients right here in south-central Kentucky.”
