Rotablation, also known as rotational atherectomy (RA) or simply atherectomy, is a specialized medical procedure designed to remove plaque buildup and open blockages in coronary arteries. This technique is particularly useful in situations where traditional angioplasty may not be effective, such as when the plaque is especially hard, or the artery is too narrow.
How Does Rotablation Work?
Rotablation involves the use of a catheter equipped with a small, rotating blade or burr. Here’s how the procedure typically works:
- Catheter Insertion: A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel, usually through the groin or wrist, and guided to the blocked coronary artery.
- Rotating Burr: The catheter has a tiny, diamond-tipped burr at its tip, which rotates at high speeds (up to 200,000 RPM).
- Plaque Removal: As the burr rotates, it grinds away the hard, calcified plaque into tiny particles, which are small enough to be safely washed away in the bloodstream.
- Artery Widening: By removing the plaque, the procedure widens the artery, restoring blood flow to the heart muscle.
What Can Rotablation Treat?
Rotablation is primarily used to treat severe cases of coronary artery disease, especially when:
- Severe Calcification: The plaque is heavily calcified and hard, making it resistant to balloon angioplasty.
- Narrow Arteries: The artery is extremely narrow, and other methods cannot adequately open it.
- Recurrent Blockages: Previous attempts at angioplasty or stenting have failed, and blockages have reoccurred.
The Rotablation Procedure
Rotablation is performed in a catheterization laboratory (cath lab) by experienced interventional cardiologists:
- Preparation: You will lie on a procedure table, and an intravenous (IV) line will be inserted to administer medications and fluids. The entry site will be cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.
- Catheter Insertion: A small incision is made, and the catheter is carefully threaded through the blood vessel to the site of the blockage.
- Rotational Atherectomy: The burr is activated, and as it rotates, it grinds away the plaque. The procedure is monitored using real-time X-ray imaging to ensure precision.
- Completion: Once the plaque is sufficiently removed, additional treatments like balloon angioplasty or stent placement may be performed to further open the artery and keep it open.
- Post-Procedure Care: The catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion site to stop any bleeding. You may need to stay in the hospital for a short period for monitoring.
Why Choose Advanced Cardiovascular Specialists for Rotablation?
Advanced Cardiovascular Specialists is at the forefront of utilizing advanced techniques like rotablation to treat complex coronary artery disease. Our commitment to excellence ensures you receive the highest quality of care.
- Expertise: Our interventional cardiologists have extensive experience with rotablation, ensuring precise and effective treatment.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: We use the latest rotablation equipment and techniques to achieve optimal outcomes.
- Comprehensive Care: We offer a multidisciplinary approach, combining the expertise of cardiologists, nurses, and technicians to provide comprehensive care tailored to your needs.
- Patient-Centered Approach: We prioritize your comfort and understanding throughout the procedure, ensuring you are well-informed and supported every step of the way.
Understanding Your Rotablation Results
After the procedure, your cardiologist will discuss the results with you, explaining how the procedure went and what the next steps are. This may include lifestyle changes, medications, or additional treatments to maintain heart health and prevent future blockages.
Rotablation is a vital tool in managing severe coronary artery disease, providing a solution when other methods are not viable. Trust Advanced Cardiovascular Specialists to deliver expert care with advanced technology, helping you achieve better heart health and improved quality of life.