Atherectomy Some catheter-based devices actually remove the plaque itself, a process known
as atherectomy, or ablation. There are a number of different types. One works
like a shaver, cutting the soft plaque from the obstruction site and depositing
it in a capsule which is then withdrawn. Another model cuts the plaque and
suctions it away.
Atherocath
courtesy Guidant
Rotablator,
courtesy
Boston Scientific
If the plaque has hardened, and
become calcified, the interventional cardiologist can use a
device, called a rotational atherectomy catheter: an olive-shaped
diamond burr which rotates at extremely high speed and works
like a sander to pulverize the obstruction into harmless microscopic
particles that are washed away by the blood.
Some catheters have
also been fitted with special lasers which can photo-dissolve
the tissue obstructing the arteries.
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Next
Section: "Restenosis"