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Coronary atherectomy

Rotational cutting device removing plaque

Atherectomy is a procedure that is done to open a narrowed coronary artery to improve blood flow to the heart muscle. The procedure removes fat and calcium buildup (plaque) in an artery. It is done as part of a coronary angioplasty procedure.

During an atherectomy, a thin flexible tube (catheter) is inserted through an artery in the groin or wrist. It is then carefully guided into the coronary artery that is narrowed. When the tube reaches the narrowed portion of the artery, the doctor uses a special cutting device, such as a rotational cutting tool, to remove the plaque buildup.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff
Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff

Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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