Rotablation
Rotablation is an advanced interventional cardiology technique used to treat severely calcified coronary artery lesions. It involves using a specialized device to remove hardened plaque from the walls of arteries, facilitating improved blood flow and enhancing the effectiveness of other treatments like angioplasty and stenting.
How Does Rotablation Work?
During the procedure, a catheter equipped with a diamond-coated rotating burr is inserted into the artery through a small incision, typically in the groin or wrist. Under X-ray guidance, the catheter is advanced to the site of the calcified blockage. The rotating burr grinds away the calcified plaque into tiny particles, which are then flushed away with the blood flow. This process helps to smooth and enlarge the artery, making it easier to perform subsequent angioplasty or stent placement.
Benefits of Rotablation
- Effective for Calcified Lesions: Rotablation specifically targets hard, calcified plaque that may be resistant to traditional angioplasty techniques.
- Improves Blood Flow: By removing plaque and smoothing the artery walls, rotablation restores normal blood flow and enhances the success of stent placement.
- Minimally Invasive: The procedure is less invasive than traditional surgical methods, leading to shorter recovery times and reduced hospital stays.
When is Rotablation Used?
Rotablation is typically used when other methods, such as balloon angioplasty, are insufficient to address heavily calcified arterial lesions. It is often employed in cases where the arteries are too hardened for traditional treatments to be effective, making it a crucial option for certain patients with complex coronary artery disease.
Why Choose Rotablation?
Rotablation offers a specialized approach for treating challenging arterial blockages, particularly those involving calcified plaques. It enhances the effectiveness of subsequent treatments, improves patient outcomes, and supports better long-term cardiovascular health.
