When the catheter has positioned the balloon at the blockage site, the balloon is inflated and the stent expands. The balloon and catheter are removed, leaving the stent in place to keep the artery open. Atherectomy An atherectomy catheter has a small rotating cutter at it s tip that shaves and removes plaque from the artery. Once the plaque is removed, the artery is sufficiently open to restore improved blood flow. Laser Angioplasty A laser device creates a cool, high intensity light beam that concentrates on a very small area.
Laser light travels through a fiberoptic tube much like water running through a hose.
The laser probe is gradually advanced through the area of obstruction until a channel is opened, permitting blood to flow freely. The laser beam vaporizes plaque without damaging the surrounding tissue. A nurse will monitor your vital signs and frequently check the pulse in your groin area, behind your knees and at your ankles and feet. Like the aortagram procedure done outside the hospital. Our Heart Center Vascular Rehabilitation program may be prescribed for you so we can closely monitor your progress.