Columbia Faculty Highlight Key Advances at CTO Plus 2026
February 13-February 14, 2026 - New York Marriott Marquis
Columbia faculty will play a pivotal role in CTO Plus 2026, a leading global forum focused on chronic total occlusion (CTO) and complex coronary artery disease. CTOs are complete blockages in the heart arteries and affect about 1 in 5 people with coronary artery disease, a condition that impacts millions in the U.S. and hundreds of millions worldwide.
The two-day event brings together doctors, researchers, and educators from around the world to share the latest strategies and technologies that help patients with some of the most challenging heart conditions.
Columbia’s Role at CTO Conference
This year, Columbia’s team will perform live cases demonstrations, lead major scientific discussions, and highlight key advances in CTO care.
Top Highlights:
- Live Case Demonstrations: Drs. Margaret McEntegart and Khady Fall will perform two live cases from NewYork‑Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center. These cases are part of 12 total live case demonstrations at the meeting, giving doctors worldwide a chance to see the latest techniques in action.
- New Treatment Approaches: One focus is the emerging role of drug‑coated balloons (DCBs) in treating complex coronary disease. These balloons deliver medication directly to the artery wall during a procedure. New research shows that drug‑coated balloons may help treat some blocked arteries without needing long metal stents, making procedures simpler and potentially safer for patients. This reflects a bigger change in how doctors approach treating complex heart blockages.
- Advanced Imaging Technology: Another major focus is the use of advanced coronary CT imaging. New imaging technology now gives doctors a much more detailed picture of coronary anatomy prior to intervention. At this year’s meeting, many live cases use this imaging to help doctors plan procedures and make better decisions in real time.
Columbia Participants
- Khady Fall, MD
- Ajay Kirtane, MD
- Margaret McEntegart, MD
- Megha Prasad, MD
About CTO Plus
CTO Plus is an annual meeting organized by the Cardiovascular Research Foundation (CRF). It focuses on the latest techniques, live case demonstrations, research findings, and expert discussions to improve care for patients with complex heart artery blockages.
About CRF
For over 30 years, the Cardiovascular Research Foundation has focused on improving treatments for heart and blood vessel diseases through research and education. Their mission is to bring new treatments to patients faster, improving their health and quality of life.
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