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Peripheral Angioplasty, Atherectomy, and Stenting

Our peripheral angioplasty, atherectomy, and stenting procedures work together to treat narrowed or blocked peripheral arteries, restoring blood flow and improving overall vascular health. Whether you suffer from peripheral artery disease (PAD) or other arterial blockages, our comprehensive care will guide you toward recovery with minimal invasion and maximal benefit.
peripheral angio

How Do Diagnostic Peripheral Angioplasty, Atherectomy, and Stenting Work Together?

Peripheral angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to open narrowed or blocked arteries outside the heart, primarily affecting the legs, arms, or kidneys. Using a catheter with a balloon, our specialists navigate to the blockage, where the balloon is inflated to widen the artery and restore blood flow.

peripheral angio

In cases where plaque buildup is more severe, an atherectomy may be performed before or during angioplasty. This technique involves using a small, rotating device to shave away plaque from the artery walls. Atherectomy is especially beneficial in treating calcified or hardened plaques, making the artery more responsive to balloon angioplasty and allowing for more effective treatment of complex lesions.

After the angioplasty or atherectomy, a stent may be placed to ensure the artery remains open. A stent is a small, metal mesh tube that acts as a scaffold, providing structural support to prevent the artery from narrowing again (a process called restenosis). Stents are crucial for maintaining long-term blood flow and ensuring the success of the procedure.

Angioplasty, atherectomy, and stenting together offer a comprehensive solution for treating peripheral artery disease. These procedures are typically performed in a single session, minimizing recovery time and reducing the need for additional interventions.

 

metal peripheral vascular stent on hand_

 

How Do Diagnostic Peripheral Angioplasty, Atherectomy, and Stenting Work Together?

Peripheral angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to open narrowed or blocked arteries outside the heart, primarily affecting the legs, arms, or kidneys. Using a catheter with a balloon, our specialists navigate to the blockage, where the balloon is inflated to widen the artery and restore blood flow.

In cases where plaque buildup is more severe, an atherectomy may be performed before or during angioplasty. This technique involves using a small, rotating device to shave away plaque from the artery walls. Atherectomy is especially beneficial in treating calcified or hardened plaques, making the artery more responsive to balloon angioplasty and allowing for more effective treatment of complex lesions.

After the angioplasty or atherectomy, a stent may be placed to ensure the artery remains open. A stent is a small, metal mesh tube that acts as a scaffold, providing structural support to prevent the artery from narrowing again (a process called restenosis). Stents are crucial for maintaining long-term blood flow and ensuring the success of the procedure.

Angioplasty, atherectomy, and stenting together offer a comprehensive solution for treating peripheral artery disease. These procedures are typically performed in a single session, minimizing recovery time and reducing the need for additional interventions.

 

metal peripheral vascular stent on hand_

 

Benefits & Risks of Peripheral Angioplasty, Atherectomy, and Stenting

Benefits

  • Minimally Invasive: These procedures are performed through small incisions, resulting in less scarring and a quicker recovery than traditional surgeries.
  • Improved Blood Flow: Together, these treatments restore healthy circulation, alleviating symptoms such as pain, cramping, or fatigue in the limbs.
  • Long-Term Results: The combination of atherectomy and stenting enhances the durability of the procedure, helping patients stay symptom-free for longer periods.
  • Outpatient Procedure: Many patients can return home the same day and resume normal activities within a short time frame.

Risks

As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks involved. They may include:
  • Bleeding or Hematoma: Bleeding can occur at the catheter insertion site, and in some cases, a hematoma (a collection of blood) may form.
  • Arterial Damage: Rarely, the catheterization process may damage the artery, potentially requiring additional intervention.
  • Restenosis: There is a risk that the artery could narrow again over time, even after stenting, which may necessitate further treatment.
  • Blood Clots: Blood clots can form at the site of the stent, which may lead to complications like restenosis or stroke.
  • Allergic Reactions: Some patients may experience allergic reactions to the contrast dye used during the procedure, though severe reactions are uncommon.
  • Infection: Although rare, infections can occur at the insertion site or around the stent.

What to Expect With Diagnostic Peripheral Angiography and Intervention

The procedure typically takes place in a specialized catheterization lab, where local anesthesia is administered to numb the insertion site. A catheter is carefully guided to the affected artery, and depending on the severity of the blockage, angioplasty, atherectomy, or stenting—or a combination of all three—will be performed.

After the procedure, you will be monitored for several hours, and most patients experience mild soreness at the insertion site. Follow-up care includes medications to prevent blood clots and guidance on maintaining vascular health.

Am I a Candidate for Peripheral Angioplasty, Atherectomy, and Stenting?

Peripheral angioplasty, atherectomy, and stenting are highly effective treatments for individuals experiencing symptoms of peripheral artery disease or other vascular blockages. The decision to undergo these procedures is based on a combination of factors that determine your suitability for the treatment.

You may be a candidate if you:
  • Have been diagnosed with peripheral artery disease (PAD) or other arterial blockages in your legs, arms, or kidneys.
  • Experience leg pain or cramping when walking (claudication) that has not improved with lifestyle changes or medication.
  • Suffer from non-healing wounds on your legs or feet that may indicate poor circulation.
  • Have narrowed arteries that have been confirmed via imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or angiogram.
  • Are at risk of arterial complications, such as loss of circulation, that could lead to tissue damage or amputation.
  • Have a good overall health profile that supports minimally invasive procedures, including recovery and post-treatment care.

Manage Your Heart Health With Advanced Cardiac Care

If you're experiencing symptoms of peripheral artery disease (PAD) or other arterial issues, such as leg pain or non-healing wounds, our team is here to help. Schedule an appointment with our skilled vascular specialists today to discuss if peripheral angioplasty, atherectomy, and stenting may be the right choice for you.

Our Cardiovascular Specialists Are Here for You

We offer comprehensive and compassionate cardiovascular care using cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art treatments. We focus on building strong patient-to-physician relationships while delivering timely, high-quality vascular treatments to restore health and well-being.

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