Like its predecessors, the 18th annual WHSI conference was another distinguished event loaded with insights on wound care, vascular surgery and medicine. The three-day hybrid event provided a space for respected professionals in the healthcare space, researchers, and representatives of the tech industry to discuss advancements and challenges in the field, as well as find more innovative ways to enhance patient care.
With a multidisciplinary audience and a well-rounded panel of prominent figures in the industry, the conference provided an opportunity to share ideas and introduce unique perspectives on relevant topics.
One of the main highlights of the event was Session 4: Innovations In Vascular Intervention & Advanced Wound Management.
Here’s a quick recap.
Dr. Montero-Baker is an associate professor at the Division of Vascular Surgery and
Endovascular Therapy in Houston, Texas. His main clinical interests are implantable micro-technology, critical limb ischemia (CTLI), and endovascular carotid disease management.
Dr. Montero-Baker is an active member of the International Society for Vascular Surgery and the International Society of Endovascular Surgeons.
Christopher Shackles DO, MPH is a Vascular and Interventional Radiologist (VIR) at the
Advanced Interventional and Vascular Services. His place of primary practice is the Holy Name Medical Center in New Jersey. Dr. Shackles’ talk on CTLI was aimed at advancing our understanding of peripheral vascular disease and how endovascular intervention fits into the conversation.
Patients with CTLI often present with complex patterns of lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD), which significantly limits their surgical options beyond amputating the affected limb. Dr. Shackles also introduced advanced endovascular concepts and techniques used during revascularization.
Dr. Zakir is the current director of high-risk PCI and research at the Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas University Hospital. His talk focused on how timely endovascular treatment of CTLI can lead to limb salvage and improved outcomes among patients with PAD.
He also talked about how the success of endovascular treatments was dependent on the ability to cross occluded vessels and restore adequate blood flow through atherectomy. The lecture also introduced new specialty wires and balloons that can improve the operator’s ability to successfully administer the treatments.
Dr. Andersen is the chief of Vascular, Endovascular, and Limb Preservation Service at the Madigan Army Medical Center. His lecture focused on the challenges of diagnosing wound-related cellulitis early, as the usual signs and symptoms of infection may not be immediately present. Even where present, these symptoms could be signs of other conditions, such as chronic stasis dermatitis.
Dr. Andersen posited that incorporating fluorescence imaging into standard care for wound-related cellulitis can significantly improve diagnosis by detecting the presence of elevated bacterial burden around the infected area.
Dr. Oropallo is the director of the Comprehensive Wound Healing Center at Northwell Health. Her lecture focused on the need to integrate advanced technology to better manage wound care. She also talked about the latest devices being used in the industry to improve patient outcomes.
Dr. Lantis is the current Site Chief and Professor of Surgery at the Icahn School of Medicine. His presentation focused on novel ways of regaining improved oxygen tension at the wound for patients who are not candidates for revascularization. He also talked about the possible use of cellular or tissue-based therapies, and whether they are more beneficial in helping patients heal from ischemic wounds.
Read the full program brochure to learn more about other topics covered at the conference.
The 19th annual WHSI conference is scheduled for June 24-25, 2022 in New York City. Registration will open soon. Details will be posted on our registration page.
Plan to be there as key opinion leaders unite to present their latest updates, breakthroughs, and novel clinical approaches on amputation prevention. In addition to the premium networking and educational opportunities, our panelists are also happy to answer common questions about your industry and provide any helpful insight for your research.
If you have any further questions regarding our upcoming conference, please call 212-332-8008 or email us at info@psdcfoundation.org.
