Medical Definition of Atherectomy
1.
The surgical removal of arteriosclerotic plaque (an atheroma) from the inner surface of an blood vessel.
This procedure is employed most commonly in major arterial vessels (for example coronary arteries, carotid arteries, arteries in the limbs) that have suffered from the progressive occlusive effects of atherosclerosis.
This procedure may be accomplished using a balloon-tipped catheter (angioplasty), a laser, a small drill-tipped catheter or by conventional surgical incision.
(27 Sep 1997)
Lexicographical Neighbors of Atherectomy
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