The interventional cardiology division implants two new stents

April 30, 2021
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Medical Firsts at the Montreal Heart Institute

The Montreal Heart Institute (MHI) is proud to announce that the interventional cardiology team has implanted new drug-eluting stents (DES) in two patients: one a Canadian first, the other a North American first. These medical devices, among the most effective in cardiology, help reduce the risk of complications and death in people with coronary artery disease.

“Innovation has always been at the heart of our actions,” says Dr. Jean-François Tanguay, head of the Hemodynamics Department at the MHI and Professor of Medicine at Université de Montréal. “With this in mind, we are constantly seeking to provide our patients with the latest advances in cardiovascular medicine, such as these two new coronary stents, so that they can enjoy a better quality of life.”

Understanding Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease affects the arteries of the heart, the vessels that supply blood to the heart. It is often caused by the accumulation of plaque on the inner walls of the arteries, called atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis results in narrowing or clogging of the arteries and reduces blood flow. Several risk factors linked to lifestyle habits, such as smoking, obesity, stress and a sedentary lifestyle, can cause atherosclerosis.

If left untreated, coronary artery disease can lead to angina, myocardial infarction (heart attack), heart failure or sudden death. Among the treatment options, angioplasty is often recommended. This minimally invasive procedure consists of widening a narrowed artery by placing a small circular metal mesh, called a “stent”, that gradually releases medication. This reduces the risk of that part of the vessel narrowing again.

A Canadian First

On April 14, 2021, Dr. Jean-François Tanguay implanted BIOTRONIK’s Orsiro stent for the first time in Canada since its approval by Health Canada on March 17^th. This stent has the finest mesh on the market. This feature allows for a more customized treatment of small blood vessels. It has excellent clinical results and promotes rapid patient recovery.

A North American First

On January 12, 2021, for the first time in North America, Dr. Mohamed Nosair implanted the Boston Scientific Synergy Megatron stent due to special authorization from Health Canada. “This stent has unique characteristics: significant radial strength to support highly calcified lesions and significant expansion for implantation in large arteries,” said Dr. Nosair, cardiologist and hemodynamic specialist at the MHI. This stent has the largest diameter available to date to treat left main or large coronary arteries and its very robust mesh allows for treatment of more resistant calcified lesions, offering the interventional cardiologist excellent visibility for very precise implantation.

“Since its creation, the Montreal Heart Institute has been a pioneer in cardiovascular medicine, notably by allowing for numerous medical firsts,” explains Mélanie La Couture, President and CEO of the MHI. “The implantation of these two new pharmacological stents once again demonstrates our commitment to offering the best in cardiology here in Montreal.”

About the Montreal Heart Institute

Founded in 1954, the Montreal Heart Institute constantly aims for the highest standards of excellence in the cardiovascular field through its leadership in clinical and basic research, ultra-specialized care, professional training, and prevention. It houses the largest research center in Canada, the largest cardiovascular prevention center in the country, and the largest cardiovascular genetics center in Canada. The Institute is affiliated with the Université de Montréal and has more than 2,000 employees, including 245 doctors and more than 85 researchers.