Learn About Atherectomy
Learn More About Atherectomies in Louisville, KY
What Is an Atherectomy?
The Atherectomy Procedure
The minimally invasive nature of atherectomy means it requires only a small incision, through which a thin catheter is inserted into the affected artery. Our team will ensure you understand every step of the process before beginning. Here’s a general overview of what to expect during the procedure:
- Preparation—Patients lie down on their backs and receive a dose of anesthesia to keep them comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Incision—Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the doctor will make a small incision into the groin area and insert the catheter.
- Artery Location—The catheter is then maneuvered through the blood vessels until it reaches the blocked artery.
- Dye Injection—Now that the doctor has located the target artery, they inject dye into the area. This provides a clearer visual of how blood moves through the arteries.
- Plaque Removal—The doctor can then remove the plaque and watch the dye to confirm whether the blockage has been fully eliminated. A laser is then used to scrape away or dissolve the rest of the plaque.
- Finishing Up—With the plaque removed, the doctor can remove the catheter, alleviate bleeding, and apply a bandage to the insertion site.
How You Can Benefit From This Procedure
The atherectomy procedure is straightforward and highly effective for arteries blocked by plaque. It also presents several advantages over traditional methods of addressing atherosclerosis. Here is how you might benefit from the procedure:
- Effectiveness in Difficult Areas—An atherectomy can reach areas that are challenging to treat with angioplasty or stents, such as severely narrowed vessels or arteries with complex anatomies.
- Quick Recovery—The minimally invasive approach promotes a quicker recovery time, allowing patients to return to their daily activities sooner compared to more invasive procedures.
- Improved Efficacy of Other Treatments—Atherectomy can be used in conjunction with other treatments like stent placement or balloon angioplasty to improve the overall effectiveness and outcomes.
Ideal Candidates for Atherectomy
Atherectomy is not a one-size-fits-all solution. However, it is often a good fit for those with worsening atherosclerosis. If any of the following scenarios apply to you, ask us about this minimally invasive procedure:
- You have peripheral artery disease and significant plaque buildup.
- You have hardened arteries.
- Plaque affects areas of the artery that are hard to reach with other treatments.
- You prefer a speedy recovery.
Recovering From Atherectomy
The recovery process following an atherectomy is notably quicker and less painful than that of traditional surgery. Patients can expect to be monitored closely for a few hours post-procedure to ensure no immediate complications. But after that, most people will be able to return home the same day or the following day. Walking can be resumed relatively quickly, but strenuous activities should be avoided for at least a week or as advised by the healthcare provider. The site of the incision may be tender for a few days, and any signs of infection or unusual symptoms should be reported immediately. Don’t forget your follow-up appointments, as these are crucial for ensuring a successful recovery.
Reach Out to Precision Vascular Kentucky
The decision to undergo an atherectomy should be made after a thorough discussion with a specialist. At Precision Vascular Kentucky, our trusted physician, Dr. Ryan Jean-Baptiste, would be happy to evaluate your condition and recommend this procedure when it makes sense for you. Over the years, our team has worked with countless patients with PAD, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. We are here to help you as well. People come to us from all over the Louisville area, including Saint Matthews, Shepherdsville, and Bardstown, as well as from Jeffersonville, Clarksville, and New Albany, IN. Contact us today for further details on this promising procedure.