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Innovation Therapy

Innovative approaches and advancements in treating common disorders through non-surgical, outpatient techniques.

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Meet Dr. George Foulard

Our Interventional
Radiologist’s Approach

Dr. Foulard is renowned for his innovative approaches and advancements in treating common disorders through non-surgical, outpatient techniques. As a recognized thought leader in vascular and interventional radiology, he brings extensive knowledge and expertise to the field. In collaboration with our team of skilled interventional cardiologists and vascular surgeons, they lead the field in the treatment of common disorders using non surgical minimally invasive approaches.

The team specializes in the non-surgical treatment of Uterine Fibroids, Prostate Enlargement, and Erectile Dysfunction, Peripheral Arterial Disease, Varithena.

Our Interventional Radiologist’s Approach

  • Erectile Dysfunction Treatment

    Erectile dysfunction (ED), or impotence, affects 40% of men aged 40 and older and 70% of men aged 70 and older. The most common cause of ED is issues with blood flow, whether arterial or venous. Medications such as Viagra and Cialis can improve symptoms but are often ineffective and have potential side effects.

    COMMON APPROACH

    When Viagra, Cialis, or other ED medications are not sufficient, patients are often offered the option of penile implants. The process, from diagnosis to surgery, can be uncomfortable and may include procedures like intraurethral Doppler ultrasounds with cumbersome, invasive equipment. Additionally, penile implant surgery, which is often costly to the patient, carries the risk of potentially serious complications and can result in less rigid erections than desired.

    Our Approach

    At Sorin Medical, we tackle this issue with innovative approaches to both diagnosis and treatment. Using advanced imaging techniques like high-resolution pelvic CT angiography and computer-aided analysis, we identify blocked arteries, pinpointing the exact cause of ED. Our Interventional radiologist uses balloons or stents to restore normal blood flow through these vessels, improving circulation and erectile function through a tiny puncture in the left wrist. This procedure is fast, safe, and allows patients to return to their normal activities as little as two hours following the procedure.

  • Uterine Fibroids

    Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths of the uterus that can cause severe abdominal and pelvic pain and pressure, heavy menstrual bleeding, frequent urination, constipation, back and leg pain, reproductive issues, anemia, and other serious symptoms.

    COMMON APPROACH

    The traditional approach to treating uterine fibroids is a complete hysterectomy. This highly invasive surgery results in the complete removal of the uterus, the inability to get pregnant, and a painful and lengthy recovery.

    Our Approach

    We treat fibroids with a non-surgical procedure known as uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). Using both ultrasound and other advanced imaging techniques, Our Interventional radiologist utilizes a tiny puncture in the wrist to cut off blood supply to the patient’s fibroids, causing them to shrink dramatically in size. This allows patients a quick recovery and relief from symptoms without invasive surgery.

  • Prostate Enlargement

    Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or benign prostate enlargement, is a common condition that occurs when the prostate gland enlarges as men age. This increase in size leads to several urinary problems, including incomplete emptying, frequent urination, stopping and starting while urinating, difficulty holding in the need to urinate, weak urine stream, straining to urinate, and needing to urinate multiple times throughout the night.

    COMMON APPROACH

    The traditional approach to treating BPH is surgery called Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP). TURP is a major surgical procedure that involves removing the prostate piece by piece with a large metal scope through the urethra. This surgery can cause urinary tract infections, heavy bleeding, and significantly worsened sexual, including erectile, function. TURP additionally requires a 3-4 week recovery time, which is often painful.

    Our Approach

    Our interventional radiologist uses a non-surgical approach to treat the enlarged prostate. Dr. Foulard utilizes a tiny puncture in the wrist to decrease blood supply to the patient’s enlarged prostate, resulting in an often dramatic improvement in symptoms. This minimally invasive non-surgical treatment allows patients to recover quickly and often return to normal activities the same day.

The Interventional Cardiology
and Endovascular Medicine team

The Interventional Cardiology and Endovascular Medicine team at Sorin Medical specializes in innovative, minimally invasive procedures to treat arterial blockages in the heart and legs. Our distinguished doctors leverage cutting-edge techniques to access arteries through the wrist and foot, minimizing risk and significantly reducing recovery time. By embracing these patient focused approaches, we have revolutionized patient care, delivering exceptional outcomes and enhancing the overall patient experience. Our commitment to innovation ensures that we remain at the forefront of cardiovascular and endovascular treatment.

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Michael Shapiro MD

Our Interventional Cardiologists Approach

  • Peripheral Arterial Disease

    Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a common condition in which the narrowing of arteries due to calcification causes restricted blood flow to the limbs. The buildup of fatty deposits and calcium on the walls of the arteries can severely limit blood flow, and if left untreated, may lead to serious complications, including amputation.

    COMMON APPROACH

    The typical approach to treating PAD often involves traditional angioplasty, where a catheter is inserted through the groin or arm to access the affected arteries. This method, while effective, can be associated with longer recovery times, higher risk of complications, and limited access to certain areas of the vasculature.

    Our Approach

    Through pedal access (a small incision in the ankle), our team of vascular providers can efficiently and safely access the affected arteries. This innovative technique allows for more precise intervention with several key benefits. Pedal access reduces the risk of complications compared to traditional methods. Patients often experience shorter recovery times and less post-procedure discomfort. This approach allows us to reach arteries that may be challenging to treat through traditional access points. Additionally, the procedure is less invasive, contributing to overall patient comfort and satisfaction.

  • Varicose Veins

    COMMON APPROACH

    The traditional treatment for varicose veins often involves procedures like vein stripping, where the affected veins are surgically removed. Other methods include sclerotherapy, where a solution is injected into the veins to close them, or thermal ablation, which uses heat to seal off the veins. While these treatments can be effective, they may involve discomfort, longer recovery times, and potential complications.

    Our Approach

    At Sorin Medical, we use Varithena for treating varicose veins. This innovative approach involves a minimally invasive procedure where a specialized foam is injected into the affected veins. The foam causes the veins to collapse and seal shut, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins. Varithena offers several key benefits. It minimizes discomfort and reduces recovery time compared to traditional methods. The procedure is less invasive, decreasing the risk of complications. It is also highly effective, providing lasting results and improving overall leg health and appearance. Our dedication to using advanced techniques like Varithena ensures that our patients receive the best possible care for treating varicose veins.

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