May 23, 2025
Lafayette – Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) is the first in the world to use the 200cm RANGER Drug-Coated Balloon to treat peripheral artery disease (PAD) in the legs. CIS interventional cardiologist Dr. Ankur Lodha was the first to use this new balloon on May 20 at the CIS Office Based Lab in Lafayette, Louisiana.
Distributed by Boston Scientific, the RANGER 200cm Monorail Drug-Coated Balloon is the first device of its kind made with a long 200cm shaft, allowing interventionalists to treat blocked arteries in the upper leg using a small access point in the wrist. This approach is minimally invasive and more comfortable for patients. The device is easy to guide through the body and delivers medication directly to the blockage, helping to keep the artery open.
“Using this balloon through the radial approach-from the wrist rather than the groin- offers a safer option for our patients. It’s more comfortable for patients and allows them to get back on their feet sooner after the procedure,” said Dr. Lodha. “This is a truly innovative step forward in how we treat peripheral artery disease (PAD) in the legs.”
PAD is a condition where arteries in the legs become narrowed reducing blood flow. It can cause leg pain and mobility issues and also increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and limb amputation.