Over time, calcium can build up within the artery walls, creating rigid narrowings that are difficult to expand. Rotablation uses a tiny diamond-coated rotating burr to carefully modify these calcified deposits, allowing further treatment to be performed safely and effectively.

How Does Rotablation Work?

The rotating device is advanced through the coronary artery and gently sands away hardened calcium deposits into microscopic particles that are naturally removed by the body’s circulation.

Once the calcified narrowing has been modified, balloon angioplasty and stenting can usually be performed successfully.

Why Might Rotablation Be Required?

Rotablation may be recommended when:

  • Coronary arteries contain significant calcium deposits
  • Balloon angioplasty alone is unlikely to be effective
  • Stents cannot be adequately expanded
  • Complex coronary artery disease is present

Benefits

  • Improves treatment of heavily calcified arteries
  • Enables successful stent implantation
  • Enhances long-term procedural outcomes
  • Expands treatment options for complex coronary disease

Recovery

Recovery and driving regulations are the same other coronary intervention procedures, dependent on whether or not stents are inserted, with most patients returning home the same day or following a short overnight stay.