Atherectomy

An atherectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove plaque which is the fatty, hardened buildup that can narrow or block your arteries and restrict blood flow. During the procedure, a catheter is carefully inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the area of blockage. The catheter has a special device on its tip, such as a tiny rotating blade, laser, or sanding mechanism, that gently removes the plaque from the artery walls.

By clearing away this buildup, atherectomy can significantly improve blood flow and relieve symptoms such as leg pain, cramping, or non-healing wounds caused by poor circulation. In some cases, an angioplasty or stent placement may be performed immediately afterward to help keep the artery open and ensure long-term results.

Preparation: Atherectomy is typically performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. The skin where the catheter will be inserted is sterilized and numbed.

Catheter Insertion: Using real-time X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy), a tiny puncture is created where a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into an artery. The catheter is gently guided through the vascular system to the site of the blockage.

Atherectomy (Removing Plaque): If plaque buildup is the problem, a specialized atherectomy device is advanced through the catheter. Depending on the type of device used, it may:

• Cut or shave plaque from the artery wall,

• Grind it into tiny particles, or

• Vaporize it with a laser.

Once removed, the debris is safely collected and removed from the body, opening the artery and improving blood flow.

Restoring Circulation: Once the blockage is cleared, blood flow is immediately restored. Sometimes, additional treatments — such as angioplasty or stent placement — are performed at the same time to keep the vessel open and prevent future blockages.

Completion and Recovery: After the procedure, the catheter is removed, and a small bandage is applied. No stitches are necessary, and most patients are able to go home the same day.

Recovery and Results: Recovery from atherectomy is typically quick, with most patients resuming light activities within 24–48 hours. Many notice an immediate improvement in symptoms such as leg pain, cramping, or numbness as blood flow returns to normal. Because the procedure directly removes the cause of the blockage, it is often highly effective in preventing complications like tissue damage, limb loss, or recurrent clotting.