Introduction

Atherectomy surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove plaque buildup from the arteries. This buildup, called atherosclerosis, narrows or blocks arteries, restricting blood flow to various parts of the body. Atherectomy helps restore proper circulation and is often performed on patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD), coronary artery disease, or other vascular conditions that cause reduced blood flow.

This surgical technique uses specialized devices to cut, shave, or vaporize plaque from the inner walls of the arteries. Unlike angioplasty, which simply pushes plaque to the sides of the vessel walls, atherectomy physically removes the buildup, making it an effective solution for patients with heavily calcified or hard-to-treat arterial blockages.

The procedure is performed using catheters inserted through small incisions, which makes it less invasive than traditional open surgeries. Because of its effectiveness and quick recovery time, atherectomy has become an important treatment option for many patients suffering from arterial blockages. Below are the key aspects of what is atherectomy surgery? and it benefits.

What is Atherectomy Surgery?

Purpose of Atherectomy Surgery

The main purpose of atherectomy surgery is to treat arterial blockages caused by plaque buildup. Over time, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances accumulate inside the artery walls, reducing the space for blood to flow. This narrowing can lead to pain, numbness, and in severe cases, tissue death. Atherectomy is typically recommended for patients who have not responded well to medication or lifestyle changes, or whose blockages are too complex for other procedures like balloon angioplasty. It is particularly useful for calcified arteries where traditional methods may be less effective.

By removing the plaque, atherectomy helps improve blood flow, relieve symptoms, and lower the risk of complications such as heart attacks, strokes, or limb amputations.

How the Procedure is Performed

Atherectomy surgery is a catheter-based procedure performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation. The surgeon makes a small incision, usually in the groin or wrist, and threads a catheter through the blood vessels to the site of the blockage.

The catheter is equipped with a special device designed to remove plaque. Different atherectomy devices work in various ways:

Some use a rotating blade or burr to shave off plaque.
Others employ lasers to vaporize the blockage.
Some devices have a cutting mechanism that collects plaque as it is removed.

The procedure is guided by real-time imaging techniques like fluoroscopy, which help the surgeon navigate the arteries and precisely target the blockage. Once the plaque is removed, the catheter is withdrawn, and the incision site is closed.

Atherectomy may be combined with other procedures like angioplasty or stenting to ensure the artery remains open and blood flow is fully restored.

Types of Atherectomy Devices

There are several types of atherectomy devices, each designed for specific situations:

Directional atherectomy devices have a rotating blade that cuts plaque in a controlled direction.
Rotational atherectomy devices use a diamond-tipped burr to grind plaque into tiny particles that can be safely removed.
Orbital atherectomy devices spin a crown-shaped tip that sands away plaque, creating a smooth artery wall.
Laser atherectomy devices use pulses of light energy to vaporize plaque and restore blood flow.

The choice of device depends on the type and location of the blockage, as well as the patient’s overall health.

Benefits of Atherectomy Surgery

Atherectomy offers several benefits over other vascular treatments

It physically removes plaque rather than simply compressing it against the artery wall, reducing the chance of future blockages.
It is highly effective for heavily calcified arteries that are resistant to angioplasty.
It is minimally invasive, meaning shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and less discomfort for the patient.
It can be performed on an outpatient basis in many cases, allowing patients to return home the same day.

These benefits make atherectomy a preferred option for many patients with advanced arterial disease.

Who is a Candidate for Atherectomy?

Atherectomy is generally recommended for patients with moderate to severe arterial blockages, especially when other treatments have not been successful. Patients with peripheral artery disease, particularly those who experience pain while walking (claudication) or at rest, may benefit from this procedure.

It is also ideal for patients with heavily calcified arteries or those whose blockages are in areas difficult to treat with stents. However, not everyone is a candidate. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as severe bleeding disorders or kidney disease, may require alternative treatments. A thorough evaluation, including imaging tests and medical history review, helps determine if atherectomy is the right choice.

Recovery After Atherectomy Surgery

Recovery from atherectomy is typically quick because the procedure is minimally invasive. Most patients can return home the same day or the next day. Mild soreness or bruising at the incision site is common but usually resolves within a few days. Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a short period. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure the treated artery remains open.

To prevent future blockages, lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and controlling conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure are recommended. Doctors may also prescribe medications like antiplatelet drugs to reduce the risk of blood clots.

Conclusion

Atherectomy surgery is a safe and effective procedure for removing plaque from arteries and restoring blood flow. It is particularly beneficial for patients with complex or calcified blockages that cannot be treated with other methods. By physically removing the plaque, atherectomy not only relieves symptoms like pain and numbness but also reduces the risk of serious complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and limb amputations.

Because the procedure is minimally invasive, recovery is quick, and patients can often return to their daily routines within a short time. If you suffer from peripheral artery disease or other vascular conditions, consulting a vascular specialist can help determine if atherectomy is the right treatment for you.