Peripheral Vascular Atherectomy

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a condition in which plaque sticks to the walls of an artery and either blocks it or narrows it. Plaque consists of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and fibrous tissues found in the blood. When it clumps together, the plaque will harden and restrict blood flow. Plaque in the arteries is called atherosclerosis.

When atherosclerosis or PAD is discovered in an arm or leg, a peripheral vascular atherectomy may be performed to remove the obstruction with a special catheter equipped with a laser is used. The laser is a high-energy light that vaporizes the plaque and increases blood flow to the peripheral tissues.

Although PAD can be found in arteries leading from the heart to the head, stomach, or kidneys, it is typically found in the legs. Symptoms of PAD include pain (especially when walking or climbing stairs), numbness, and increased infections. Severe blockages of the blood can lead to gangrene or amputation.

While age and certain diseases are risk factors for PAD, the main risk factor is smoking.