Rotational atherectomy

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Infobox Medical Procedure
Name Rotational Atherectomy
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MeSH [[Medical Subject Headings|]]
OPS-301 code
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Rotational atherectomy, also known as rotablation or rotational angioplasty, is a minimally invasive procedure used in the field of cardiology to treat coronary artery disease (CAD). It involves the use of a specialized device called a rotablator to remove plaque buildup within the arteries, improving blood flow and reducing the risk of heart-related complications.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

Rotational atherectomy is typically performed in a cardiac catheterization laboratory by an interventional cardiologist. The procedure begins with the administration of local anesthesia to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted. A small incision is made in the groin or wrist, and a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the affected coronary artery.

Once the catheter is in place, a guide wire is threaded through it and advanced to the site of the blockage. The rotablator device, which consists of a small, diamond-coated burr attached to a high-speed rotational motor, is then inserted through the catheter and positioned at the site of the plaque.

The burr is activated and spins rapidly, effectively grinding away the plaque and creating microscopic particles. These particles are small enough to be carried away by the bloodstream without causing any harm. The rotational motion of the burr allows for precise removal of the plaque, while minimizing damage to the surrounding healthy tissue.

During the procedure, the interventional cardiologist carefully monitors the progress using fluoroscopy, a real-time X-ray imaging technique. This helps ensure that the plaque is adequately removed and that the artery is not damaged.

Indications[edit | edit source]

Rotational atherectomy is primarily used to treat severe cases of coronary artery disease where the plaque buildup is extensive and traditional angioplasty techniques, such as balloon angioplasty, may not be sufficient. It is particularly effective in cases where the plaque is calcified or hard, as the rotating burr can break down the hardened deposits.

The procedure is commonly performed in patients with angina (chest pain) or those who have experienced a heart attack. It can also be used as a preparatory step before the placement of a stent, as it helps create a smoother surface for stent deployment.

Risks and Complications[edit | edit source]

As with any medical procedure, rotational atherectomy carries certain risks and potential complications. These may include:

  • Damage to the artery walls
  • Dislodgement of plaque particles, leading to blockage in smaller blood vessels
  • Bleeding or hematoma at the site of catheter insertion
  • Allergic reactions to contrast dye used during the procedure
  • Infection at the site of catheter insertion
  • Rarely, heart attack or stroke

It is important for patients to discuss these risks with their healthcare provider and weigh them against the potential benefits of the procedure.

Recovery and Follow-up[edit | edit source]

After the procedure, patients are typically monitored in a recovery area for a few hours to ensure there are no immediate complications. Most patients can resume their normal activities within a few days, although strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for a few weeks.

Follow-up appointments with the interventional cardiologist are usually scheduled to monitor the patient's progress and assess the effectiveness of the procedure. Medications, such as antiplatelet drugs, may be prescribed to prevent blood clots and maintain the patency of the treated artery.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Rotational atherectomy is a valuable tool in the management of coronary artery disease, particularly in cases where traditional angioplasty techniques may not be sufficient. By effectively removing plaque buildup, it helps improve blood flow and reduce the risk of heart-related complications. However, it is important for patients to have a thorough understanding of the procedure, its risks, and its potential benefits before making an informed decision in consultation with their healthcare provider.




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