Overview:



Rotational Atherectomy:



This procedure is normally reserved for the treatment of highly calcified areas in the coronary arterial system.

​

This specialized procedure involves the insertion of a rotating catheter at up to 180,000 rpm. The obstructing fibrous plaque is pulverized into minute micro particles and washed away into the bloodstream.

​

Typically, after removal of the device, a balloon or stent procedure follows as previously described.

​

​

​

​

Directional Atherectomy:

​

The catheter used in this procedure has a hollow cylinder on the tip with an open window on one side and a balloon on the other.

When the catheter is inserted into the narrowed artery, the balloon is inflated, pushing the window against the fatty matter.

​

A blade (cutter) within the cylinder rotates and shaves off any fat that protruded into the window. The shavings are caught in a chamber within the catheter and removed.

​

This process is repeated as needed to allow for better blood flow. Like rotoblation, this procedure is rarely used today.