Alternatives for revascularization: peripheral atherectomy devices

In the ongoing search for newer methods of treating arterial occlusive disease, endovascular devices have emerged as potential alternatives to distal bypasses and/or balloon angioplasty. There are a variety of peripheral atherectomy devices on the market, four of which are discussed in this article. A description of each device including components, method of operation, advantages and disadvantages is provided. Nursing care following an atherectomy procedure is similar to that following a balloon angioplasty in the lower extremities. Early results indicate that atherectomy devices (in their current state) cannot compare with autogenous femoropopliteal bypasses in their rate of restenosis. However, if patency rates can be improved, the future of these devices will be more encouraging and their indications more clearly defined.