Atherectomy Procedure
An Atherectomy is an endovascular procedure done using a catheter with a rotating tip at high speed that open blockages in arteries, removing the plaque and restoring the artery to its original open status. The concept here is to debulk the blocking plaque then use a balloon to dilate it.
The procedure is done under local Anesthesia with some sedation. A patient does not feel or remember the procedure, while still being able to check out on the same day.
Atherectomy is done using a small catheter through a small hole in the groin area. When procedure is done, the catheter is removed, with pressure applied briefly over the hole so that it will seal, meaning no stitches are needed. The patient lays flat for an hour then will be able to go home to resume his normal life (except for driving that day).
The results of Atherectomy are remarkable in general, while combining Atherectomy with balloon angioplasty has superior results over balloon angioplasty alone.
How is the Atherectomy procedure done?
Angioplasty procedure is done using local anesthesia & sedation only, using a small needle puncture hole, no incisions or suturing needed.
What to Expect after your Atherectomy procedure?
Angioplasty is not as hard on your body as surgery, and the recovery is faster. Most patients return to their normal activity same day (except driving), no pain is felt by the patient after the procedure, and patient can ambulate as before surgery.
PAD (Peripheral Arterial Disease)
PAD is the hardening of and buildup of plaques in the arteries, the buildup is caused by cholesterol deposits on the arterial wall, causing narrowing and even blockage, which limits the flow of blood to the affected organs, causing ischemia (poor circulation) of the affected organ.
Keep PAD from getting worse
To control PAD, you should stop smoking and walk every day. You should also work with your doctor to control other risk factors, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
In addition, daily walking exercise and certain medication may improve symptoms.
Take care of your feet:
Wear comfortable shoes that don’t rub. Wash your feet daily with warm water and mild soap, and use moisturizer cream on your legs and feet. Check for cuts, sores, blisters, or other injuries. Call your doctor if you notice a problem. If you have diabetes, take extra care of your feet.
When do you need Vascular Procedures for PAD?
You should consider the procedure Atherectomy, and / or Balloon Angioplasty (possibly with stent) if:
- Your symptoms are severe enough to limit your lifestyle or your ability to work.
- Simpler treatments, such as exercise and medicine, have not helped.
You have to have the procedure Atherectomy, and / or Balloon Angioplasty possibly with stent procedure urgently, if you have any of these signs:
- Foot pain while you’re resting, especially at night.
- Sores on your toes or feet that do not heal.
- A toe that looks blue or black and may hurt.
When should you see a Vascular Surgeon (Endovascular Doctor, Vascular Doctor)?
- If you feel pain in your legs or feet
- If any cut or sore on your foot does not heal fast
