Central Carolina Hospital (CCH) has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first hospital in both North and South Carolina to conduct the new Spur RST (Retrievable Scaffold Therapy) stent procedure. This medical advancement targets below-the-knee (BTK) tibial arterial disease, aiming to restore blood flow by using a retrievable stent.
The procedure was carried out on June 23 by Dr. Rajiv Swamy, an interventional cardiologist, in CCH’s Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory. It is primarily used for patients suffering from critical limb ischemia (CLI), a severe form of peripheral arterial disease that can result in intense pain, non-healing wounds, and potentially lead to amputation if left untreated.
BTK tibial arterial disease involves the narrowing or blockage of arteries located below the knee. These arteries are essential for delivering blood to the lower leg and foot. Treatment options include endovascular procedures such as angioplasty, atherectomy, and stenting, along with surgical bypasses aimed at restoring proper blood flow.
Dr. Swamy utilized a specialized scaffolding stent developed by ReflowMedical during the procedure. The unique aspect of this system is its self-expanding feature combined with balloon dilation technology, which provides temporary support to widen blockages without leaving a permanent implant.
“As a self-expanding, retrievable stent, this new system is designed for controlled penetration to maximize treatment outcomes without compromising on patient safety,” said Dr. Swamy. “This technology allows us to deliver safer, more effective care to patients who previously had limited treatment options.” The procedure boasts a technical success rate of 99.2 percent.
Dave Santoemma, CEO of CCH stated: “Under Dr. Swamy’s expert medical leadership, we are proud to be the first hospital in the Carolinas to offer this type of innovative approach to treating patients with peripheral arterial disease.” He emphasized that investing in such treatments enhances care and improves patient outcomes.
Last year, CCH also performed another pioneering BTK stent procedure for chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI), marking its commitment to advancing medical care within the region.
