Atherectomy

Atherectomy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure, is a groundbreaking treatment for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) offered at Surgical Associates. This minimally invasive procedure works to improve blood flow in narrowed arteries.

Peripheral arterial disease and atherectomy

PAD is a common circulatory problem where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, often the legs. It's usually caused by atherosclerosis, the buildup of fatty deposits (plaque) in the arterial walls. PAD can lead to leg pain, especially during walking, and more severe cases can result in critical limb ischemia, necessitating advanced interventions like atherectomy.

What are the benefits of atherectomy?

Atherectomy offers several advantages, including:

Improved blood flow: By removing plaque, it directly improves blood flow in the affected artery.
Minimally invasive: The procedure involves small incisions, leading to shorter hospital stays and quicker recoveries.
Flexibility: Atherectomy can be used in conjunction with other treatments like angioplasty or stenting for optimal results.

What is the atherectomy procedure?

Atherectomy is a catheter-based procedure designed to remove plaque from the blood vessels. Unlike angioplasty, where the plaque is compressed against the vessel wall, atherectomy physically removes or ablates the plaque, clearing the artery. The procedure involves the following steps:

Accessing The Artery

A small incision is made, typically in the groin, to access the affected artery.

Catheter Insertion

A catheter with a plaque-removing device is guided to the narrowed area of the artery.

Plaque Removal

Depending on the atherectomy device used (directional, rotational, laser, or orbital), plaque is either cut away, pulverized, or vaporized.

Completing The Procedure

The plaque debris is collected and removed, restoring blood flow.

Who is a candidate for an atherectomy?

Atherectomy is particularly beneficial for patients with PAD characterized by:

Hardened plaque, which is challenging to treat with angioplasty.
Narrowing in smaller blood vessels where stents are not feasible.

Atherectomy Excellence at Surgical Associate

At Surgical Associates, our fellowship-trained vascular surgeons are proficient in performing atherectomy. We combine our expertise with the latest technology to ensure safe, effective treatments. Our patient-centered approach means we carefully assess each case to determine if atherectomy is the most appropriate treatment. We offer our patients a unique ability to experience world-class treatments at our state-of-the-art Vascular OBL (Office-Based Lab), offering advanced imaging technology and minimally invasive techniques for a faster, more personal, comfortable experience and recovery.

Preparing for atherectomy

Patients undergoing atherectomy receive comprehensive preoperative care, including:

Detailed discussions about the procedure in easy-to-comprehend language, not medical jargon.
Assessments to evaluate the severity of PAD and overall health.
Instructions on preparing for the surgery, including medication management.

What is the recovery after an atherectomy?

Recovery after atherectomy generally involves:

Short-term monitoring to ensure the success of the procedure.
Guidance on postoperative care, including medications, wound care, and activity levels.
Follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and assess the long-term success of the procedure.

Long-term management of peripheral artery disease

Post-atherectomy, patients are advised on lifestyle changes and medical therapies to manage PAD and prevent future arterial blockages. This includes smoking cessation, diet modifications, regular exercise, and possibly medication. Atherectomy at Surgical Associates represents a crucial option in the treatment arsenal for PAD. Our dedication to providing advanced, minimally invasive treatments ensures our patients receive the best possible care for their vascular health. If you're struggling with PAD and exploring treatment options, our team at Surgical Associates is here to guide you through the process and help you regain a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Why choose Surgical Associates for atherectomy?

At Surgical Associates, choosing us for your atherectomy procedure means entrusting your care to a team of experts in vascular health. Our skilled surgeons are adept in the latest minimally invasive techniques, ensuring a safer procedure with quicker recovery. Our state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to using the most advanced technologies further enhance the quality and safety of our treatments. We understand the complexities of peripheral arterial disease and are dedicated to not just treating the condition but also empowering you with knowledge and support for long-term vascular health.