How is plaque removed from the arteries?

stanfordhealthcare.org - Atherectomy | Stanford Health Care

What is a good cortisol blocker?

Herbs and natural supplements like ashwagandha, rhodiola, lemon balm, and chamomile have also been shown in studies to lower stress, anxiety,...

Last updated Oct 24, 2019

Can diet shrink an enlarged prostate?

Treating BPH can range from making simple lifestyle and dietary changes at home to medication and surgery. Reducing red meat consumption and eating...

Last updated Oct 23, 2021

Promotion

What Is an Atherectomy?

An atherectomy is a procedure to remove plaque from an artery (blood vessel). Removing plaque makes the artery wider, so blood can flow more freely to the heart muscles. In an atherectomy, the plaque is shaved or vaporized away with tiny rotating blades or a laser on the end of a catheter (a thin, flexible tube). This procedure is used to treat peripheral artery disease and coronary artery disease. An atherectomy is sometimes performed on patients with very hard plaque or on patients who have already had angioplasty and stents, but who still have plaque blocking the flow of blood.

What is plaque?

Plaque is the build up in arteries of fat, cholesterol, calcium and other substances. When plaque builds, it can block blood flow, or it can rupture, causing blood clots. This build up of plaque is called atherosclerosis. An atherectomy is a treatment for atherosclerosis.

How is an atherectomy performed?

The atherectomy procedure is performed in a cardiac catheterization lab. Before an atherectomy, the patient receives sedatives to help him or her relax. Next, a catheter is gently inserted in an artery, usually in the groin or upper thigh area. It's then guided through the blood vessel toward the heart. When it's in place, dye is injected through the catheter and into the coronary arteries. An X-ray is taken to help the physician pinpoint the area that is blocked or narrowed. The physician then uses tiny blades or a laser, attached to the end of the catheter, to cut away or vaporize plaque. After the atherectomy, an angioplasty or stent procedure is sometimes performed. Once the treatment is complete, the catheter is removed. Most patients go home after about 24 hours. already had angioplasty and stents, but who still have plaque blocking the flow of blood.

Why choose Stanford Health Care for an atherectomy?

Stanford is a world leader in procedures to re-establish blood flow to the heart. We perform approximately 1,000 interventions per year and offer the latest breakthroughs in the treatment of coronary artery disease including coronary revascularization. We offer state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization using low-radiation, high-resolution digital equipment that maximizes both patient safety and image quality. Stanford's three catheterization labs perform more than 4,000 procedures annually.

Can zinc help shrink an enlarged prostate?

The prostate gland stores zinc, which not only prevents prostate enlargement but may also help to shrink a prostate gland that's already swollen.

Last updated Feb 3, 2019

Which gender has more GREY matter?

males In a study of 465 neurologically intact adults, Good et al. (2001) found that males exhibited significantly higher gray matter volume in the...

Last updated May 22, 2019

Promotion

How much cinnamon should a man take a day?

Some experts suggest 1/2 to 1 teaspoon (2-4 grams) of powder a day. Some studies have used between 1 gram and 6 grams of cinnamon. High doses might...

Last updated Mar 14, 2020

What is the best food for enlarged prostate?

Fresh vegetables, fish high in Omega-3 fatty acids, olive oil, and fresh fruits, along with whole grains are all heart healthy and prostate...

Last updated Sep 27, 2021

Imagine Your Moment Of Freedom!

Fluxactive Complete is conveniently packed with over 14 essential prostate powerhouse herbs, vitamins and grade A nutrients which work synergistically to help you support a healthy prostate faster

Learn More »

Promotion

Is prostate cancer one of the most curable cancers?

Prostate cancer is among the most successfully treated types of cancer, especially when it's detected and treated in the early stages. Based on a...

Last updated Jun 24, 2022

Promotion

What can make a man weak in bed?

What causes sexual dysfunction in males? Low testosterone levels. Prescription drugs (antidepressants, high blood pressure medicine). Blood vessel...

Last updated Jul 17, 2018