Save A Limb – Save A Life

Posted on Jul 12, 2022

The Centre for Heart and Vascular Care at Meitra conducted a CME cum workshop on March 20 and 21st 2019 with emphasis on Peripheral Arterial Diseases (PAD) and Interventions.

The programme focused on below knee interventions for peripheral arterial disease with deliberations on a novel treatment modality known as Drug Eluting Balloon (DEB) Angioplasty. The scientific session and workshop was part of the ‘Save a Limb, Save a Life’ Campaign kick started by the Heart and Vascular Care team at Meitra. The workshop was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Sven Braunlich from Leipzig University, Germany, who is an expert in this treatment method. Dr. Sven Braunlich opines, “Drug Eluting Balloon Angioplasty is a very safe and effective therapy for Peripheral Arterial Disease and gives long term benefits. The treatment has also resulted in decreasing amputation rates worldwide.”

Peripheral arterial disease is a very common problem affecting the general population and most importantly diabetics and smokers. It is the most common cause for diabetic ulcers, foot amputations and limb loss. Meitra is the only centre in north Kerala that caters to this need. “Such complex cases employing Drug Eluting Balloon Angioplasty are performed routinely with very good results by the Heart and Vascular Care team at Meitra” Dr. Asish Kumar (Chairman of Cardiology Department, Meitra Hospital) commented.

“The aim of ‘Save a Limb, Save a Life’ campaign is to create an awareness among the general public regarding Peripheral Arterial Diseases and enlighten them with the new treatment modality of Drug Eluting Balloon Angioplasty that helps to decrease the burden of amputations and improve quality of life in patients “said Dr. Ali Faizal (Director and Chief of Clinical Services, Meitra Hospital).

Drug Eluting Balloon Angioplasty uses delivery of a drug-coated balloon to the site of blockage in the blood vessels and removing them by dilatation of the balloon. The drug on the balloon helps to prevent re-occurrence of block at the same site and gives long-term relief to the patient. It also helps to improve blood flow in the corresponding limb, enhances ulcer healing and helps to prevent limb amputations.