Innovation earns praise for Paulus

By MIKE JAMES
The Independent

ASHLAND July 22, 2008 11:36 pm

— A visit to an Ashland restaurant gave a medical company executive a glimpse into the esteem patients have for one local physician.
Augustine Y. Lien, the founder, chairman and CEO of Cardiva Medical Inc., had flown in from his headquarters in Mountain View, Calif., to meet with Dr. Richard Paulus, M.D., a cardiologist and medical director of the King’s Daughters Heart and Vascular Center.
They met at the restaurant to dine following discussions about devices Paulus would use in his work.
During the meal, a parade of people approached their table, most of them former patients who wanted to thank Paulus for his medical care.
One said Paulus had saved his life. Later, when Lien asked the waiter for their check, the waiter told him the man had paid the tab for their entire party.
“That’s how appreciative they are,” Lien said. “He has an iconic image in the community.”
Lien and some other Cardiva executives flew to Ashland Tuesday to hand out their own brand of appreciation to Paulus, the company’s first Chairman’s Award.
Lien gave Paulus the award during a ceremony in the heart and vascular center attended by a host of hospital staffers.
Cardiva’s esteem for Paulus stems from his contributions to the company’s development efforts. Paulus suggested a design improvement to a tool used in heart catheterizations.
The tool is used to close the sizable hole made during the procedure, which involves threading a tube through an artery. Paulus’ simple suggestion was to change the shape of the closure device from a flat disc to a convex shape somewhat resembling a miniature flying saucer.
The shape makes the device stronger and improves its sealing properties. The design allows the physician to collapse the device upon final removal, leaving only a tiny opening that heals quickly.
Paulus doesn’t have an interest in the company and receives no financial gain from his improvement, Lien said. Aside from being a top cardiologist, Paulus combines keen insights into technology with a genuine regard for his patients, he said.
“As a physician, he’s very caring about his patients. He’s also a technical guy. He looks for the best solutions. He’s always looking for new technology,” Lien said.
MIKE JAMES can be reached at mjames@dailyindependent.com or (606) 326-2652.

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