Atherectomy

Why is the doctor performing this procedure?

Atherectomy is a procedure to remove plaque from arteries. Plaque is the build-up of fat, cholesterol and other substances in an artery's inner lining.

What is the procedure?

Coronary atherectomy removes plaque from the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle. It uses rotating shaver ("burr" device on the end of a catheter). The catheter is inserted into the body and advanced through an artery to the area of narrowing. The catheter shaves off the plaque. Balloon angioplasty or stenting may be used after an atherectomy.

Balloon angioplasty and/or stent placement usually follows atherectomy.

Where is the procedure performed?

In the Cardiac Catheterization Lab.

How long does this procedure take?

Atherectomy usually takes 1-3 hours.