In this powerful episode, host Terry Roberts sits down with Dr. Craig Walker, the founder of Cardiovascular Institute of the South, to discuss his lifelong mission to prevent unnecessary amputations for patients suffering from peripheral vascular disease and critical limb ischemia.

Dr. Walker shares how he became deeply committed to this cause, recognizing that far too many amputations were being performed without even a basic vascular assessment. He describes how he set out to change this, not only through his own clinical work, but by establishing a groundbreaking training program to educate physicians across the country on the latest limb salvage techniques.

The conversation delves into the remarkable impact of Dr. Walker's efforts, highlighting how his innovative approaches have allowed him and his team to save the limbs of over 90% of patients who were previously told amputation was their only option. The profound benefits of this work are explored, from the dramatic improvements in patient quality of life to the substantial cost savings for the healthcare system.

Listeners will gain a deep appreciation for the sheer scale of the peripheral artery disease epidemic, as well as the urgent need for more widespread adoption of limb salvage best practices. Dr. Walker's passion for this cause shines through, as he makes a compelling case that saving limbs truly means saving lives.

This is a must-listen episode for anyone concerned about the growing burden of vascular disease, and who wants to learn about the innovative solutions being pioneered by trailblazers like Dr. Craig Walker. Viewers will come away inspired by his tireless efforts, and armed with a better understanding of how to ensure patients receive the comprehensive, proactive care they deserve.

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In this episode of Cardiovascular Matters, Dr. Craig Walker and Terry Roberts delve into the groundbreaking treatment of renal denervation for patients struggling with uncontrolled hypertension and it has been approved by the FDA.

Hypertension is a prevalent and potentially life-threatening condition, often requiring a combination of medications to manage. However, for some individuals, even multiple medications fail to effectively control their blood pressure.

Enter renal denervation, a novel procedure that disrupts the nerves surrounding the kidney arteries, reducing the body's sympathetic nervous system activity and leading to a significant drop in blood pressure. Dr. Walker, an early investigator of this technology, shares his firsthand experiences and the remarkable results he has witnessed in his patients.

Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the causes and consequences of hypertension, the limitations of traditional medication-based treatments, and the promising potential of renal denervation as a game-changing solution. This episode delves into the approval process, the different approaches to the procedure, and the impressive outcomes that have been observed, including patients being able to reduce or even discontinue their blood pressure medications altogether.

Whether you or a loved one are struggling with uncontrolled hypertension or simply want to stay informed about the latest advancements in cardiovascular care, this episode is a must-listen. Prepare to be enlightened and inspired by the potential of renal denervation to transform the lives of those battling this prevalent and dangerous condition.

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In this special edition of the Cardiovascular Matters podcast, host Terry Roberts sits down with Dr. Craig Walker, the founder of the Cardiovascular Institute of the South, to discuss his groundbreaking work in the field of peripheral artery disease (PAD) and limb salvage. Dr. Walker shares his personal journey, the challenges he has faced, and the innovative techniques he has developed to help patients avoid amputation and improve their quality of life.

The episode highlights Dr. Walker's recent recognition with the 2024 Impact Award from the Global PAD Impact Association, honoring his significant contributions to the field. Listeners will gain insights into the importance of addressing PAD, the multidisciplinary approach required, and Dr. Walker's efforts to raise awareness and drive advancements in this critical area of cardiovascular care.

Meet the Global Limb Salvage Team of the Year | Dr. Craig Walker
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=X6supCkEuJI

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In this episode of Cardiovascular Matters, we delve into the critical topic of acute limb ischemia, a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Dr. Walker, a renowned vascular specialist, provides a comprehensive overview of this condition, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and prompt treatment.


Key Points Discussed:

• Acute limb ischemia is a sudden cessation of blood flow to the leg, often due to clot formation, which can lead to tissue damage and even death if not addressed quickly.
  
  
• The presentation of acute limb ischemia is characterized by the "6 P's": pallor, pulselessness, pain, paresthesia, poikilothermia, and paralysis.
• Time is of the essence in treating acute limb ischemia, as every second lost can be detrimental to the patient's prognosis.
  
  
• Various treatment options are discussed, including surgical embolectomy, percutaneous clot removal devices, and thrombolytic drugs, each with their own advantages and limitations.
  
  
• Identifying the underlying cause of the clot formation is crucial to prevent recurrence and ensure long-term management of the patient's condition.
  
  
• Acute limb ischemia is a true medical emergency, with a prognosis as severe as a large heart attack, emphasizing the need for prompt and appropriate care.

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In this episode of Cardiovascular Matters, Dr. Craig Walker and Terry Roberts discuss the critical issue of critical limb ischemia (CLI), a severe form of peripheral artery disease. They explore the historical treatment approaches, the evolution of minimally invasive interventions, and the importance of a comprehensive approach to limb salvage. The conversation covers the various techniques, including balloon angioplasty, stenting, atherectomy, and lithoplasty, as well as the significance of early intervention and the role of medical therapy in managing this condition. The discussion highlights the need for increased awareness and a multidisciplinary approach to address the challenges posed by CLI.

~~~~ Key Points Discussed ~~~~

• Historical treatment approaches for critical limb ischemia, including bypass surgery and endarterectomy
• The development of minimally invasive interventions, such as balloon angioplasty, stenting, atherectomy, and lithoplasty
• The importance of a comprehensive approach to limb salvage, including medical therapy and preventive measures
• The need for early intervention to improve outcomes and reduce the risk of amputation
• The significance of addressing the progressive nature of peripheral artery disease and the importance of patient education and compliance
• The potential impact of newer diabetic medications on the progression of atherosclerosis and critical limb ischemia

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Throughout the episode, Dr. Walker emphasize the need for increased awareness and a multidisciplinary approach to addressing the challenges posed by critical limb ischemia. He stress the importance of educating both healthcare providers and the general public about the severity of this condition and the availability of effective treatment options.

By sharing their extensive knowledge and experience, Dr. Walker and Terry Roberts aim to empower listeners with the information they need to advocate for their own health or that of their loved ones, and to seek the appropriate care and treatment for critical limb ischemia.

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In this episode of Cardiovascular Matters, Dr. Craig Walker and Terry Roberts delve into the critical topic of peripheral artery disease (PAD). They highlight the alarming prevalence of PAD, with an estimated 25 million Americans affected, and emphasize its deadly nature, noting that a person with a new PAD diagnosis is as likely to die of a heart attack as a heart attack survivor.

The discussion underscores the importance of early diagnosis, even in asymptomatic patients, as this presents a valuable opportunity to implement preventive measures and potentially save lives. Dr. Walker explains the various symptoms associated with PAD, ranging from claudication (pain in the muscles during walking) to critical limb ischemia, which can lead to non-healing wounds, ulcers, and even gangrene.

The key risk factors for PAD, such as advanced age, smoking, and diabetes, are explored in depth. The presenters stress the need for healthcare providers to actively screen for PAD, particularly in high-risk populations, through simple techniques like pulse checks and pressure measurements. They also emphasize the importance of a holistic approach, focusing on risk factor modification, including smoking cessation, cholesterol management, and the implementation of walking programs.

~~~~ Key Points Discussed ~~~~

• Prevalence of peripheral artery disease, with an estimated 25 million Americans affected
• Peripheral artery disease as a marker for increased risk of heart attack and stroke
• Importance of early diagnosis, even in asymptomatic patients, to implement preventive measures
• Common symptoms of peripheral artery disease, including claudication, loss of hair on the lower extremities, and critical limb ischemia
• Risk factors for peripheral artery disease, including advanced age, smoking, and diabetes
• Preventive measures, such as smoking cessation, cholesterol management, walking programs, and medication therapy
• Screening techniques, including pulse checks and pressure measurements, to diagnose peripheral artery disease

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The episode also touches on the various medical therapies available, such as the use of aspirin, antiplatelet agents, and the medication salostazole, which can improve blood flow to the legs. Additionally, the discussion highlights the significance of screening for associated conditions, such as coronary artery disease and carotid artery disease, to ensure a comprehensive approach to patient care.

By the end of this informative episode, viewers will have a deeper understanding of the prevalence, symptoms, and preventive measures for peripheral artery disease, empowering them to advocate for their own health and that of their loved ones.

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In this in-depth podcast, cardiologist Dr. Craig Walker provides a thorough overview of high blood pressure (hypertension) - one of the leading risk factors for heart disease and stroke. Dr. Walker explains what blood pressure is and why it's important to control. He discusses the various causes of high blood pressure, including both primary (essential) hypertension as well as secondary causes related to underlying medical conditions. Dr. Walker stresses the importance of evaluating patients to determine if high blood pressure has a reversible medical cause. He also covers the risks of uncontrolled high blood pressure, symptoms of hypertensive crisis, lifestyle factors like salt intake, and non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment approaches. This educational podcast is ideal for anyone looking to gain a better understanding of high blood pressure from a cardiologist's perspective.

Key points discussed in the podcast:

• Definition of blood pressure and the two numbers typically reported
• Normal blood pressure ranges and the goal of having the lowest possible blood pressure without symptoms
• Primary/essential vs secondary causes of high blood pressure
• Examples of secondary causes like renal artery stenosis, pheochromocytoma, Cushing's syndrome, coarctation of the aorta
• Risks of uncontrolled high blood pressure like heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney damage
• Evaluation steps the cardiologist takes when a patient presents with high blood pressure, including checking for secondary causes
• Hypertensive crisis and the need to rapidly lower blood pressure in symptomatic patients
• Importance of medications that don't interfere with treating an underlying secondary cause
• Role of salt/sodium intake and how it can raise blood pressure by increasing fluid retention

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Dr. Craig Walker and Terry Roberts discuss a new class of injectable cholesterol-lowering drugs called PCSK9 inhibitors. These medications provide an additional option for lowering LDL ("bad") cholesterol beyond statin therapy alone.

Dr. Walker explains how PCSK9 normally works to block the recycling of LDL receptors in the liver, preventing further removal of LDL from the bloodstream. Two PCSK9 inhibitor drugs, Repatha and Praluent, use monoclonal antibodies to bind to PCSK9 instead, allowing LDL receptors to function properly and clear more LDL.

Viewers will learn about the mechanism of action of PCSK9 inhibitors and how they can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk by optimizing cholesterol levels.


Key Points:

• Introduction of PCSK9 inhibitors as a new class of injectable cholesterol-lowering drugs
• Explanation of how the PCSK9 protein works to block LDL receptor recycling in the liver
• Mechanism of action of PCSK9 inhibitor monoclonal antibodies like Repatha and Praluent
• Ability of PCSK9 inhibitors to further lower LDL cholesterol beyond statin therapy alone
• Potential role in optimizing cholesterol management and reducing cardiovascular risk

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