Atherectomy
Everything you need to know about atherectomy procedures.
WHAT IS AN ATHERECTOMY?
An atherectomy procedure involves using a catheter equipped with a device at the end that is capable of safely removing plaque buildup on the inside of a blood vessel. The catheter is inserted into the artery through a small incision in the skin and then guided to the diseased vessel. At Allegheny Vein and Vascular, the access point is usually at the small vessels of the foot or lower ankle. Once in position at the area of blockage, the device is activated. The device at the tip of the catheter modifies the plaque, which prepares the vessel for balloon angioplasty and possible stenting.
DEVICES USED FOR ATHERECTOMY PROCEDURES
There are a number of devices used to perform atherectomy procedures, including orbital, directional, and excimer laser atherectomy systems. At Allegheny Vein and Vascular, Dr. Tahara prefers using the excimer laser system to perform atherectomy procedures because it works particularly well in conjunction with with the ultrasound-guided procedures developed at AVV.
BENEFITS OF AN ATHERECTOMY PROCEDURE
Atherectomy procedures are able to modify a significant amount of disease within the artery. Working in conjunction with balloon angioplasty and stents, an atherectomy procedure helps to eliminate blockages safely and improve blood flow. Additionally, open surgery is not needed as atherectomy procedures are endovascular in nature. In fact, most atherectomy procedures can be performed with local anesthesia and in an outpatient setting such as Allegheny Vein and Vascular.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW PRIOR TO ATHERECTOMY
Atherectomy procedures can be performed in an outpatient setting like Allegheny Vein and Vascular. Once Dr. Tahara determines the type of procedure you need, he will provide you with detailed instructions about how to prepare for the procedure during your evaluation. Dr. Tahara carefully explores your medical history during pre-op evaluation, including recent illnesses, existing medical conditions, and any allergies you have or medications you’re taking. He will also carefully explain how you should manage your regular medications, food, and drink just prior to the procedure. As a typical example, you may be told not to eat or drink anything several hours before arrival. You may also be asked to wear loose and comfortable clothing and refrain from wearing jewelry.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR PROCEDURE
The Allegheny Vein and Vascular nursing staff will call you about 24 hours after your procedure to check up on you. Typically, the patient will also come in for a followup visit with Dr. Tahara about a week after the procedure is completed. From there on out, you will be scheduled for office visits and duplex ultrasound appointments as necessary.
IMPORTANT: It is vital that patients keep their followup appointments. The reason for this is that vascular disease is not something that just goes away. It is a process that continues, even after any necessary procedures have been performed. Regular monitoring of your condition will be required in order to help you realize your best possible outcome for the long term.
ALL THINGS VASCULAR
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