Laser BTK Study Insights: Navigating Complex Lesions

To start, Dr. Shammas explains that infrapopliteal disease is difficult to treat due to the high rate of total occlusions and the high degree of medial calcinosis. Next, he gives an introduction to laser atherectomy for certain plaque locations and morphologies, and he describes previous studies that have shown its efficacy for calcified lesions. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) can also help guide vessel sizing, plaque morphology, and appropriate device selection. Dr. Shammas believes that the current atherectomy devices on the market are easy to learn to use and can be incorporated into any CLI program.

The doctors discuss the ongoing multicenter study on outcomes of the Auryon laser atherectomy system in CLI patients. Dr. Shammas reviews the study design, proposed endpoints, and current data on 30 day outcomes. We end the episode with advice on building a strong CLI program, which includes multidisciplinary collaboration, advocating for resources, a variety of different tools, and appropriate management of cardiovascular risk factors.