Vascular surgeons at St. Peter’s Hospital, a member of St. Peter’s Health Partners, are transforming outcomes for patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) through a pioneering procedure that can prevent major amputations. Using the minimally invasive LimFlow System from Inari Medical, surgeons are able to restore blood flow to severely damaged limbs—offering patients a chance to avoid life-altering surgery.
St. Peter’s Hospital is currently the only medical center in the Capital Region offering this advanced therapeutic option.
Dr. William Raible and Dr. Yaron Sternbach, of St. Peter’s Vascular Associates, were the first in the region to successfully perform the LimFlow procedure, beginning in August 2024. Both physicians have seen firsthand the devastating impact of limb loss.
“Losing a limb affects every aspect of a patient’s life—physically, emotionally, and psychologically,” said Dr. Sternbach, Chief of Vascular Surgery at St. Peter’s Hospital. “Depression is common, and, sadly, life expectancy after a major amputation is often significantly reduced.”
The LimFlow System uses a series of stents and devices to bypass permanently blocked arteries in the leg and foot. By rerouting oxygen-rich blood through the veins, surgeons can revascularize tissue that would otherwise be lost.
“This technology essentially turns the vein into an artery, allowing us to restore circulation without major surgery,” said Dr. Raible. “It’s been incredibly inspiring to see patients regain hope and mobility.”
CLTI is the most advanced stage of peripheral arterial disease, marked by persistent pain, ulcers, and gangrene. It often affects patients with diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and other chronic conditions. For many, amputation has been the only remaining option—until now.
One such patient, Joseph Berkery, a retired firefighter and former chief of the Maplewood Fire Department in Colonie, faced the possibility of losing both legs due to gangrene. After already undergoing an amputation of his left leg, Berkery was referred to Dr. Raible when gangrene began to develop in his right foot.
Thanks to early intervention and the LimFlow procedure, Berkery’s right foot was saved.
“It’s amazing,” said Berkery. “I can’t explain how good it feels, knowing how bad it could have been. I didn’t want to lose another leg. I feel lucky.”
For Drs. Sternbach and Raible, the ability to offer this limb-saving procedure locally is a point of pride.
“We’re proud to be among the few institutions in the Northeast offering LimFlow,” said Dr. Sternbach. “Patients don’t have to travel far for cutting-edge care. This procedure is minimally invasive, with less pain and faster recovery, and it’s available right here in their backyard.”
“These patients often have no other options,” added Dr. Raible. “Now, they’re regaining independence and hope.”
“St. Peter’s Health Partners continues to lead the way in surgical innovation and high- quality, compassionate care,” said Kim Baker, Senior V.P., Hospital Operations, SPHP. “We are committed to bringing the most advanced, life-changing treatments to our community. The LimFlow procedure is not only saving limbs—it’s restoring lives. And it is a powerful example of our mission in action.”
