Patient and Family Information

Blood vessels (arteries) in the body can become clogged by fatty deposits (plaque) that slow or stop the flow of blood. When heart blood vessels are blocked, it's called coronary artery disease. When those outside the heart are blocked, it's known as peripheral arterial disease (PAD), or sometimes, peripheral vascular disease (PVD). PAD is a strong risk factor for a major event such as a heart attack or stroke.

Traditional treatment for PAD includes lifestyle changes, medication, surgery, angioplasty and now, CryoPlasty Therapy. If your physician informs you that you have peripheral artery disease, ask if CryoPlasty Therapy is the right treatment option for you.

Like angioplasty, CryoPlasty Therapy is non-surgical, requiring a small incision into the main artery of the leg, and is performed while the patient is conscious, but drowsy and feeling little to no pain.

• Step 1 - Under image guidance, the doctor passes a very small balloon through a thin tube (sheath) into the blood vessel to the site of the blockage.
• Step 2 - The PolarCath Balloon Catheter is filled with liquid nitrous oxide, which turns into a gas. The balloon expands and cools the plaque as it opens up the blockage.
• Step 3 - Once the blood vessel is opened the balloon is deflated and removed.

After the procedure, you may be required to stay in the hospital for the day (4-6 hours) or for a 24 hour period depending upon your physician’s recommendation. Complications may require you to stay in the hospital longer.

Only your doctor can determine if CryoPlasty Therapy is right for your particular medical circumstances. The PolarCath Peripheral Dilatation System is intended for use in opening up blocked arteries outside of the heart. Possible adverse effects of CryoPlasty Therapy are similar to angioplasty and may include leg pain, mild swelling or hematoma. More serious complications are uncommon but include blood clots, damage to the artery wall or re-narrowing of the artery. Talk to your doctor about the risks.

PEBAX is a trademark of Arkema France Corporation.