JMCGH offers new treatment for coronary artery disease patients

Jackson, TN, March 18, 2025 – John Baker, MD, cardiologist with West Tennessee Medical Group, recently performed the first procedure using the AGENT™ Drug-Coated Balloon (DCB) to treat a patient with coronary artery disease who was experiencing in-stent restenosis (ISR). The procedure was performed at Jackson-Madison General Hospital (JMCGH).

The AGENT DCB was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in early 2024, supported by positive clinical trial findings demonstrating its statistical superiority compared to uncoated balloon angioplasty and low event rates at 12 months. The device is also commercially available in many international markets and has been used to treat more than 100,000 patients globally. ISR – the narrowing of a previously stented coronary vessel by plaque or scar tissue – accounts for 10% of all percutaneous coronary interventions in the U.S.

The AGENT DCB is coated with the anti-restenotic drug paclitaxel, which is delivered to the artery wall via a proprietary technology to help prevent ISR reoccurrence, and without leaving behind another layer of metal stenting. “We are proud to offer the latest in technology and advancements in the treatment of coronary artery disease in order to keep our patients from having to travel long distances for state-of-the-art care,” said James Fountain, Vice-President of Operations at JMCGH. 

West Tennessee Healthcare is a public, not-for-profit healthcare system with locations serving 19 counties in West Tennessee and Southeast Missouri. The mission of West Tennessee Healthcare is to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve while providing exceptional and compassionate care. For more information, visit www.wth.org.

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