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7 Groundbreaking Cardiovascular Technologies CIS Is Pioneering In 2025

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The Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) is not just a regional cardiology practice; it is a global epicenter for interventional cardiovascular research and cutting-edge technology. As of December 22, 2025, CIS continues its decades-long tradition of being the first to introduce revolutionary treatments, often performing world-first or Louisiana-first procedures that redefine the standards of heart and vascular care.

This deep dive explores the latest breakthroughs, leadership, and research initiatives that keep CIS at the forefront of treating complex conditions like peripheral artery disease, heart failure, and severe hypertension. Their commitment to clinical trials and the rapid adoption of new, FDA-approved devices ensures that patients in Louisiana and Mississippi have access to the future of cardiology today.

The Legacy of Innovation: CIS at a Glance

The story of the Cardiovascular Institute of the South began with a singular vision to combat alarmingly high cardiovascular disease death rates in the region. Founded in 1983 by Dr. Craig Walker, CIS started as a one-physician practice in Houma, Louisiana. Today, it has grown into a world-leader in preventing, detecting, and treating cardiovascular and peripheral vascular disease, with numerous locations across Louisiana and Mississippi.

The institute’s success is built on a foundation of aggressive clinical research and the development of new techniques, particularly in the field of interventional cardiology. Dr. Walker’s initial focus on pioneering new methods for treating complex coronary and peripheral artery disease set the stage for the institute’s current status as a research powerhouse.

CIS Leadership Profile

  • Founder: Dr. Craig Walker
  • Founding Year: 1983
  • Headquarters: Houma, Louisiana
  • Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Ryan Hebert, MHA, RT(R), CCIR (with CIS since 2014)
  • Chief Operating Officer (COO): Crystal Williams, MHA, FACMPE
  • Senior Vice President (SVP): John Kazusky, MBA

Under the guidance of CEO Ryan Hebert and the executive team, CIS maintains its focus on clinical excellence and expanding its geographical footprint to bring advanced care closer to patients in the Gulf South.

7 Groundbreaking Technologies CIS is Pioneering in 2025

CIS physicians consistently serve as clinical investigators, often being the first in the world, the nation, or the state to utilize new, life-saving cardiovascular technology. This dedication to early adoption provides patients with access to treatments years before they become standard practice elsewhere.

1. World-First Use of a New Drug-Coated Balloon

In a significant global first, CIS led the charge by being the first in the world to use a novel Drug-Coated Balloon (DCB) system. This breakthrough technology is designed to treat blockages in leg arteries, which is crucial for patients suffering from Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). The DCB works by delivering a therapeutic agent directly to the vessel wall to prevent re-narrowing, offering a less invasive and more durable solution for maintaining blood flow.

2. First in Louisiana to Use the Artix™ Thrombectomy System

In a major development for the state, CIS, in partnership with Terrebonne General, became the first in Louisiana to utilize the Artix™ Thrombectomy System. This advanced system is used to treat acute arterial blockages by efficiently removing blood clots. The technology is a game-changer for emergency cardiovascular care, offering a rapid and effective method to restore blood flow and save limbs and lives.

3. Pioneering the TriClip™ Valve Repair System in Acadiana

CIS was the first in the Acadiana region to adopt the FDA-approved TriClip™ Valve Repair System. This technology is a significant advance for patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation (a leaky heart valve) who are considered high-risk for open-heart surgery. The TriClip™ procedure is minimally invasive, repairing the valve without the need for a major operation, offering a new lease on life for vulnerable patients.

4. Introduction of the Paradise® Ultrasound Renal Denervation System

For patients struggling with difficult-to-control high blood pressure, CIS is pioneering a new approach. Dr. Kalyan Veerina, an interventional cardiologist at CIS, was the first in Acadiana and the second in Louisiana to use the Paradise® Ultrasound Renal Denervation System. This procedure uses ultrasound energy to calm overactive nerves in the renal arteries, which can significantly lower blood pressure in patients with resistant hypertension.

5. First to Implant the Optimizer® Therapy System for Heart Failure

Addressing the critical need for better heart failure treatments, CIS cardiologist Dr. Siby Ayalloore was the first to implant the Optimizer® Therapy System. This system delivers cardiac contractility modulation (CCM) therapy, which improves the heart’s ability to contract and pump blood more effectively. It is specifically designed for patients with moderate-to-severe heart failure who are not candidates for other advanced therapies.

6. Leading the THOR IDE Clinical Trial

CIS successfully treated the first patient in the THOR IDE clinical trial, showcasing their role in developing innovative new technologies. While the specifics of the THOR device are proprietary to the trial, this participation underscores CIS’s commitment to being a primary site for early-stage testing of potentially revolutionary cardiovascular devices.

7. Advancing Critical Limb Ischemia (CLI) Treatments

CIS has a long history of developing and applying new techniques for treating complex coronary and peripheral artery disease, including advanced treatments for Critical Limb Ischemia (CLI). Their ongoing involvement in dozens of clinical trials ensures they remain at the forefront of preventing amputations and improving quality of life for patients with the most severe forms of vascular disease.

Leading the Charge in Cardiovascular Research and Clinical Trials

The continuous flow of "first-in-the-world" and "first-in-state" procedures at CIS is a direct result of their robust and internationally recognized research program. Since its inception, CIS has been a world-leader in interventional cardiovascular research, earning a reputation for tackling complex cases and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in non-surgical treatments.

A Hub for Interventional Cardiology

CIS physicians are highly sought after as clinical investigators, participating in dozens of clinical trials at any given time. These trials cover a wide range of cardiovascular health, including new stents, drug therapies, and advanced techniques for chronic total occlusions (CTOs). Their research is not limited to the heart; they are also heavily invested in studies related to peripheral vascular disease, which affects blood flow to the limbs.

The institute’s commitment to research is formalized through the Cardiovascular Institute of the South Clinical Research Corporation, which sponsors and manages many of these pivotal studies. This structure allows them to rapidly translate laboratory findings into patient care, ensuring that the latest scientific advancements are immediately available to their community.

Impact on Patient Care and Topical Authority

This deep involvement in research grants CIS significant topical authority in the field of cardiovascular medicine. For patients, this means that CIS specialists—including experts in electrophysiology, structural heart disease, and advanced heart failure—are often the most experienced with the latest tools and techniques. The continuous cycle of research, innovation, and clinical application is what truly distinguishes CIS as a premier cardiology provider in the Gulf South and beyond.

The institute's focus on developing new techniques for treating complex conditions, such as coronary artery disease and peripheral artery disease, ensures that patients who have been turned away elsewhere often find a solution at a CIS clinic. Their work in areas like thrombectomy, renal denervation, and valve repair demonstrates a comprehensive approach to managing all facets of heart and vascular health.

7 Groundbreaking Cardiovascular Technologies CIS is Pioneering in 2025
cis cardiovascular institute of the south
cis cardiovascular institute of the south

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