CHIPSTAR is an advanced educational program designed for interventional cardiologists who are developing or expanding their expertise in complex coronary interventions, including CTO and CHIP procedures. The course provides a structured, hands-on approach to mastering the modern interventional toolbox, advanced techniques for complex anatomy, and calcium modification strategies supported by intravascular imaging.

The curriculum emphasizes practical, device-focused learning across three pillars:

1. Toolbox Mastery
Hands-on instruction in:
• Specialty guidewires and wire escalation
• Microcatheters and dual-lumen devices
• Guide extension catheters and support tools
• Re-entry devices and ancillary technologies

2. Specialized Techniques for Complex PCI
Stepwise training in:
• Lesion navigation and crossing strategies
• Antegrade dissection/re-entry
• Retrograde techniques
• Complex bifurcation PCI
• Management of tortuous or calcified anatomy
• Hemodynamic support strategies

3. Calcium Modification & Imaging-Guided PCI
Comprehensive instruction in:
• IVUS and OCT for assessment and optimization
• Cutting and scoring balloons
• Rotational atherectomy
• Orbital atherectomy (if available)
• Intravascular lithotripsy (IVL)

Enrollment is limited to 24 participants to ensure optimal faculty interaction, procedural planning discussions, and extensive simulator time. CHIPSTAR empowers operators to treat challenging coronary lesions with precision, safety, and confidence.

Course Directors
Jurij Avramovic – Gregor Leibundgut – Mihailo Kovacic – Mihai Cocoi