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| Speciality | Cardiac Sciences |
| Procedure | Atherectomy |
| Success Rate | 75-85% |
| Recovery Time | 3 to 7 days |
| Treatment Time | 2 to 3 hours |
| Chances of Recurrence | 5-10% |
Atherectomy is a minimally invasive medical procedure that removes plaque buildup from narrowed arteries to create a better pathway for blood flow. During the procedure, a catheter with a cutting or ablating device is inserted into the affected artery. The atherectomy procedure helps restore blood flow and improve the artery's diameter. There are 4 main types of atherectomy excisional atherectomy (a blade is used to cut the plaque in one direction), laser ablation atherectomy (use of a laser beam to destroy plaque), orbital atherectomy, and rotational atherectomy (circular motion blades are used to cut through the plaque).
Atherectomy is primarily used to treat peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and peripheral vascular disease (PVD) in the lower extremities. It is especially beneficial when traditional treatments like angioplasty and stenting are not suitable due to severe calcification or complex plaque formation.
The recovery period after an atherectomy is usually short. The site of insertion may feel a little bruised. The patient may feel some discomfort for a few hours post procedure. The patient is usually discharged in a day or two. They are advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few days. The healthcare team monitors the patient's progress and provides appropriate post-procedure care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
