Name of the Procedure:

Revascularization, endovascular, open or percutaneous, tibial, peroneal artery, unilateral, initial vessel; with atherectomy, includes angioplasty within the same vessel, when performed Common names: Tibial/Peroneal Artery Revascularization with Atherectomy and Angioplasty

Summary

This medical procedure involves restoring blood flow in the tibial or peroneal artery of one leg using a minimally invasive technique. It includes both atherectomy (removal of plaque) and angioplasty (widening of the artery with a balloon and possibly a stent).

Purpose

• Condition: Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), particularly in the lower extremities.
• Goals: To reduce symptoms like pain and cramping during walking, heal foot ulcers or prevent gangrene, and improve overall limb functionality.

Indications

• Significant narrowing or blockage of the tibial or peroneal artery due to atherosclerosis.
• Symptoms such as claudication (leg pain while walking), rest pain, non-healing wounds, or ulcers on the lower legs or feet.
• Patients for whom non-invasive treatments (e.g., lifestyle changes, medications) have been ineffective.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions:
  • Fast for at least 6 hours before the procedure.
  • Adjust or cease certain medications as advised, particularly anticoagulants.
• Diagnostic Tests:
  • Peripheral arterial ultrasound, angiogram, blood tests, and possibly an MRI or CT scan.

Procedure Description

1. Accessing the Artery:
   • A small incision is made, typically in the groin, to access the blood vessel.
2. Atherectomy:
   • A specialized catheter with a cutting device is inserted to remove plaque from the artery.

3. Angioplasty:

   • A balloon catheter is then advanced to the site of blockage and inflated to widen the artery. A stent may be placed to keep the artery open.

   • Tools Used: Atherectomy device, balloon catheter, possibly a stent, imaging equipment.
   • Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with sedation, sometimes general anesthesia for open procedures.

Duration

Typically, 1 to 2 hours depending on the complexity.

Setting

Conducted in a hospital or specialized outpatient surgical center, usually in a catheterization lab.

Personnel

• Vascular surgeon or interventional cardiologist.
• Radiologist.
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist.
• Surgical nurses and technicians.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infection, bleeding, bruising at the incision site.
• Rare Risks: Artery damage, allergic reactions to contrast dye, blood clots, restenosis (re-narrowing of the artery), and kidney problems.

Benefits

• Improved blood flow and relief of symptoms like pain and cramping.
• Healing of ulcers and prevention of tissue death (gangrene).
• Enhanced mobility and quality of life, usually noticeable soon after recovery.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Monitoring in a recovery area, bed rest for a few hours, instructions on wound care.
• Recovery Time: Typically, a few days to a week for initial recovery, with gradual resumption of normal activities.
• Restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity until fully recovered.
• Follow-up: Regular check-ups to monitor artery health and adjust medications if necessary.

Alternatives

• Non-Surgical Treatments: Medication management, lifestyle changes, and supervised exercise programs.
• Other Procedures: Bypass surgery, different types of endovascular interventions.
• Pros and Cons: Non-surgical options are less invasive but might be less effective. Bypass surgery is more invasive with longer recovery but might be needed for extensive blockages.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Minimal discomfort; sedation helps with relaxation. Possible mild pressure or discomfort at the insertion site.
• After Procedure: Mild soreness at the incision site, possible fatigue for a few days. Pain management includes prescribed medications for any discomfort. Regular follow-up ensures optimal recovery and monitoring.