In the field of cardiovascular medicine, Dr. Peter Soukas, director of peripheral vascular interventional laboratory at The Miriam Hospital, has identified Cardiac Shockwave Therapy as one of the most significant breakthroughs in the past decade. This innovative research has resulted in an FDA-approved treatment for calcium blockages in coronary and leg arteries.

One individual who has benefited from this therapy is Bruce Barton, who faced multiple blocked arteries and the possibility of losing a toe, foot or part of his leg. Despite undergoing eight failed attempts at clearing the blockages, Barton found relief through a minimally invasive procedure called Cardiac Shockwave Therapy at The Miriam Hospital.

Soukas explains that the procedure involves utilizing high frequency ultrasonic waves to crack and fissure calcium deposits in the arteries. This process prepares the vessels for follow-up with a drug coated balloon or stent for extended durability of the outcome. The Miriam Hospital has been involved in clinical trials for Cardiac Shockwave Therapy since 2017 and has seen positive results in over 500 cases.

Since receiving treatment, Barton reports being able to walk three miles rather than just 100 yards, highlighting the significant impact this therapy can have on individuals facing arterial blockages.