- An atherectomy is a procedure that mechanically removes plaque and other debris that
can block arteries throughout the body. Dr. Adem clears a clogged artery by cutting,
shaving, or vaporizing the plaque that is blocking a blood vessel. The device used to
perform an atherectomy is attached to a thin tube called a catheter. - Atherectomies can be used to widen arteries that have closed following a balloon
angioplasty or treatment with stents. - Atherectomy treats diseased coronary arteries. It is less commonly used in arteries
outside the heart. - Factors Dr. Adem considers when deciding whether to perform atherectomy include:
o The location or shape of plaque deposit
o The size or anatomy of the patient’s arteries
o Whether the plaque is exceptionally hard, or calcified
o Whether clots are present in the artery
