Peripheral Atherectomy

Also known as: Debulking atherectomy

Duration: About 2 hours

An atherectomy is a term for a group of procedures that use sharp blades to remove plaque (fat and calcium buildup) from the clogged arteries.

A peripheral atherectomy removes plaque from the peripheral arteries. It is a minimally invasive procedure that follows a peripheral angiogram to improves the blood flow to your limbs when severe calcium and/or fat builds up in your arteries and will not allow the insertion and expansion of a stent.

Uses: 

• To treat severe peripheral artery disease (PAD)
• To treat cases where a previously placed stent has become narrowed again

Preparing for the procedure: 

Download Pre Procedure Instructions

How the procedure is performed: 

• Firstly, a peripheral angiogram is performed to check for any blocks in the peripheral arteries. A catheter (a thin, long tube) is placed in either your legs or groin and is monitored by an x-ray camera until it reaches the targeted artery.
• A contrast dye is then infused so that the arteries can be seen. 
• If an artery is blocked, your cardiologist will determine if a peripheral atherectomy is needed to remove plaque (fat and calcium buildup) from the clogged arteries.
  • Rotational Atherectomy – involves removing plaque by using a rotating catheter with a diamond-tipped blade
  • Orbital Atherectomy – involves using the Diamondback 360° Orbital Atherectomy System to remove the plaque with orbital motion
  • Laser Atherectomy – uses a laser-tipped catheter to treat complex blockages
• Once the atherectomy is completed, your cardiologist will determine if a balloon angioplasty with or without stent placement is required.

After the procedure: 

Download Post Procedure Instructions