Atherectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove plaque buildup from the arteries, particularly those affected by atherosclerosis. At SHIFAA PAN African Hospitals, our skilled interventional cardiologists perform atherectomy procedures with precision and expertise to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of complications associated with narrowed or blocked arteries.

Procedure Overview:

During an atherectomy procedure, a specialized catheter with a cutting device or laser is inserted into the affected artery through a small incision in the groin or wrist. The catheter is guided to the site of the plaque buildup using fluoroscopy and contrast dye. Once in position, the cutting device is activated to remove or modify the plaque, restoring the artery’s diameter and improving blood flow.

Indications for Atherectomy:

Atherectomy may be recommended for patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) or coronary artery disease (CAD) who experience symptoms such as leg pain, cramping, or chest discomfort due to narrowed or blocked arteries. It is often performed when traditional treatments such as medication or angioplasty are ineffective or unsuitable.

Procedure Process:

During the atherectomy procedure, the patient is sedated to ensure comfort and relaxation. The interventional cardiologist makes a small incision in the groin or wrist and inserts a thin, flexible catheter into the artery. Using advanced imaging technology, the catheter is navigated to the site of the blockage, where the cutting device is deployed to remove the plaque.

Benefits of Atherectomy:

Atherectomy offers several benefits for patients with narrowed or blocked arteries, including improved blood flow, relief of symptoms such as pain or discomfort, and reduced risk of complications such as heart attack or stroke. By effectively removing plaque buildup, atherectomy can enhance overall cardiovascular health and quality of life.

Post-Procedure Recovery:

Following atherectomy, patients are monitored closely for any signs of complications, such as bleeding or infection. Most patients can return home the same day or after a short observation period, although strenuous activity should be avoided for a short period. Our cardiology team provides comprehensive post-procedure instructions and follow-up care to ensure optimal recovery and long-term heart health.

 

What is atherectomy, and how is it performed?

Atherectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove plaque buildup from narrowed or blocked arteries. During the procedure, a specialized catheter with a cutting device is inserted into the artery and used to remove or modify the plaque, restoring blood flow.

 

When is atherectomy recommended for patients with narrowed or blocked arteries?

Atherectomy may be recommended for patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) or coronary artery disease (CAD) who experience symptoms such as leg pain, cramping, or chest discomfort due to narrowed or blocked arteries. It is often performed when traditional treatments are ineffective or unsuitable.

 

What are the benefits of atherectomy for patients?

Atherectomy offers several benefits, including improved blood flow, relief of symptoms such as pain or discomfort, and reduced risk of complications such as heart attack or stroke. By effectively removing plaque buildup, atherectomy can enhance overall cardiovascular health and quality of life.

 

How long does the atherectomy procedure take, and what is the recovery process like?

The duration of the atherectomy procedure varies depending on the complexity of the blockage and the number of arteries involved. Most patients can return home the same day or after a short observation period, with careful monitoring and support from our cardiology team.

 

What are the potential risks or complications of atherectomy?

Potential risks include bleeding, infection, allergic reactions to medications or contrast dye, blood vessel damage, or re-narrowing of the treated artery (restenosis). Our experienced interventional cardiologists take every precaution to minimize these risks and ensure patient safety.

 

How long do the benefits of atherectomy last, and are there any lifestyle changes recommended after the procedure?

The benefits of atherectomy can be long-lasting, although lifestyle modifications such as a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and medication adherence are essential for maintaining heart health and reducing the risk of future cardiovascular problems.

 

Is atherectomy suitable for all patients with narrowed or blocked arteries, and are there any alternative treatments available?

Atherectomy may not be suitable for all patients, depending on the severity and location of the blockages, overall health status, and individual treatment goals. Alternative treatments for narrowed or blocked arteries may include medication therapy, lifestyle modifications, or other minimally invasive procedures. Our cardiology team evaluates each patient’s condition carefully to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

At SHIFAA PAN African Hospitals, our dedicated team of interventional cardiologists is committed to providing safe, effective, and compassionate care for patients undergoing atherectomy procedures. If you have concerns about narrowed or blocked arteries or have been recommended for atherectomy, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our experienced cardiology team to discuss your options and develop a personalized treatment plan.