Coronary Atherectomy

The coronary arteries supply blood to the heart muscles. When plaque narrows or blocks one of the arteries, a coronary atherectomy is used to improve the blood flow. Impediment of the blood flow in the coronary arteries is called coronary artery disease (CAD) and is a big risk factor for heart attack.

A coronary atherectomy is a type of angioplasty, one of several methods of correcting blocked or narrowed coronary arteries (balloon angioplasty, coronary angiography, stenting, minimally invasive bypass grafting).

When treating CAD (coronary artery disease), a coronary atherectomy can reduce the risk of death in some patients.

Coronary atherectomy is performed in a cardiac catheterization laboratory (the cath lab). Special x-ray equipment and video screens are used to perform the procedure and it is expected to last one to two hours.

Light or moderate sedation is typically used, but some patients may require general anesthesia if the atherectomy will be combined with a more extensive procedure.

A tiny catheter is inserted through the groin or the arm after the area is shaved, cleaned, and numbed. The catheter is guided to the artery needing treatment. A contrast agent is injected for better quality of the x-ray images. The blockage or narrowing is removed or repaired, and possibly, a stent is placed.

Our cardiologists at Stanislaus Cardiology specialize in diagnosing and treating all cardiac conditions. We are experienced in all types of cardiac procedures to get our patients back to a better life.