Which statement best describes an atherectomy?

Which statement best describes an atherectomy?

• A. Plaque is dissolved chemically within the lumen
• B. Plaque is cut out of the vessel, and pieces are removed through a catheter
• C. Plaque is compressed against the vessel wall with a balloon
• D. Plaque is removed by suction through a catheter

Answer: (B)

Atherectomy involves mechanically removing plaque from the vessel. A catheter-based device cuts or shaves away the atheromatous material, and the resulting debris is carried out through the catheter system for removal. This is different from dissolving plaque with chemicals, which would be pharmacologic lysis; or from balloon angioplasty, which merely compresses plaque against the vessel wall to widen the lumen; or from suction-only removal, which pulls material out without the cutting/shaving step. Therefore, describing plaque as being cut out of the vessel and removed through a catheter best captures what atherectomy does.