LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - Baptist Health recently partnered with Arkansas-based medical device startup Vascugenix to introduce new technology to the U.S. that was developed by Baptist Health cardiologist Dr. Dwight Chrisman.

The Speed Torque is specially designed to improve the process of guidewire manipulation in cardiovascular procedures. The patented design allows physicians to easily manipulate a guidewire with one hand, unlike traditional guidewire torque devices that require two hands to advance and reposition.

The Speed Torque was first used by Dr. Chrisman on Oct. 3 at Baptist Health Medical Center-Little Rock during a coronary artery intervention.

Coronary artery intervention is a procedure to correct a blockage of an artery of the heart to help a patient. A small wire is advanced passed the blocked segment of the artery in order to be able to advance and place a stent or balloon to correct the blockage. The Speed Torque device enables the physician to more efficiently place the wire in the correct position to place the balloon or stent.

For more information about the Speed Torque, ask your cardiologist or visit our website at baptist-health.com.