Name of the Procedure:

Percutaneous transluminal coronary atherectomy, with intracoronary stent, with coronary angioplasty when performed; single major coronary artery or branch. Commonly referred to as Coronary Atherectomy with Stenting and Angioplasty.

Summary

This procedure involves the removal of plaque from a coronary artery, followed by the placement of a stent to keep the artery open. Often, a balloon angioplasty is performed to widen the artery before stent placement. This helps restore proper blood flow to the heart in patients with coronary artery disease.

Purpose

• Medical Condition: Primarily addresses coronary artery disease, where plaque buildup restricts blood flow to the heart.
• Goals: To relieve symptoms like chest pain (angina), reduce heart attack risk, and improve heart function. Ensures the artery stays open for proper blood circulation.

Indications

• Severe chest pain (angina) that doesn't respond to medication.
• Evidence of reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
• Significant blockage (over 70%) in a single major coronary artery or its branches.
• Previous unsuccessful angioplasty.

Preparation

• Fasting: Usually required for at least 6-8 hours prior.
• Medication Adjustments: Blood thinners and certain medications may need to be paused.
• Diagnostic Tests: Pre-procedure assessments include blood tests, electrocardiogram (ECG), and coronary angiography.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is used, and sedation may be provided.
2. Access: A catheter is inserted into an artery, typically in the groin or wrist.
3. Atherectomy: A specialized device at the catheter tip removes plaque from the artery walls.
4. Angioplasty: A balloon at the catheter's end is inflated to widen the artery.
5. Stent Placement: A metal stent is positioned in the artery to keep it open long-term.

Duration

Typically takes 1-2 hours.

Setting

Performed in a hospital's catheterization lab, which is equipped for cardiac procedures.

Personnel

• Interventional cardiologist
• Cardiac catheterization lab team, including nurses and technicians
• Anesthesiologist or sedation nurse

Risks and Complications

• Common: Bleeding at the catheter site, artery re-narrowing (restenosis), allergic reaction to contrast dye.
• Rare: Heart attack, stroke, artery perforation, kidney damage from contrast dye.

Benefits

• Immediate relief of chest pain.
• Improved blood flow and heart function.
• Reduced risk of future heart attacks.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Monitoring in a recovery area, typically for a few hours.
• Instructions: Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for several days.
• Recovery Time: Most patients return to normal activities within a week.
• Follow-Up: Regular check-ups to monitor heart health and stent function.

Alternatives

• Medications: Anti-angina medications and blood thinners.
• Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG): Open-heart surgery to create a bypass around the blocked artery.
• Pros and Cons: Medications may not provide sufficient relief or long-term benefits. CABG is more invasive with a longer recovery time but may be more suitable for extensive disease.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Minimal pain due to local anesthesia; possible mild discomfort or pressure.
• After the procedure: Some soreness at the catheter insertion site; pain is typically managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Comfort Measures: Sedation, if used, provides relaxation and amnesia regarding the procedure.