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New Artery Procedure Provides Relief for Those With Peripheral Artery Disease

By KFBB News Team

Story Created: Aug 17, 2009 at 3:42 PM MST

Story Updated: Aug 17, 2009 at 6:01 PM MST

Approximately 12-20 million Americans suffer from a painful condition called Peripheral Artery Disease, also known as PAD. It occurs when plaque builds up in blood vessels, blocking arteries, most commonly in the pelvis and legs. The disease is dangerous when left untreated, but now many patients are experiencing relief through a simple procedure.

Harry Jacobs leads an active lifestyle. The 69-year old real estate broker stays on his feet constantly. However, this all came to a halt when he developed Peripheral Artery Disease.

Jacobs explains, “I had no balance at all. I couldn’t walk right, I had to use a crutch.”

Like many Americans with PAD, Harry became frustrated when his condition prevented him from completing daily activities.

He says, “Well, it’s tough, if you’re walking like I used to walk and run. I couldn’t run, I couldn’t walk.”

PAD can be easily diagnosed through testing, but often goes undiagnosed, as many dismiss the pain and attribute it to aging. This can be dangerous, because PAD can lead to painful symptoms, loss of a limb, and increased risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke. Thanks to a simple procedure, many patients with PAD are experiencing relief without having drastic surgery.

Dr. Dick Paustian of Helena Cardiology Clinic, explains, "There were really only two options in terms of treatment. They were both surgical. One was a bypass operation and two was amputation. Treatments were not very good, there were not many choices, and the outcomes were frankly poor. One of the options became, can we just simply remove the plaque, just remove the blockages, and not put a stent in at all, and so that was where this newer device, called a Silver Hawk, was developed. Up until recently most people didn't know this type of technology existed."

By making a small incision, doctors can insert the Silver Hawk catheter into restricted arteries to remove the plaque buildup. It has now been two months since Harry underwent the procedure on both of his legs, and he continues to be pleased with the results.

He says, “Well before was terrible, now I feel like I can move around again. I would recommend it to anybody.”



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