[High-frequency rotational atherectomy in coronary heart disease]

Percutaneous high frequency coronary rotational ablation (PTCR) was used in 10 patients with significant coronary artery disease. PTCR removes arteriosclerotic material from the vessel wall. A diamond-coated (60-80 micron) brass burr-drill, fastened to a flexible drive shaft rotating and tracking along a central coaxial guide wire, was used. The turbine rotates the drive shaft in excess of 150,000-190,000 revolutions per minute. PTCR was successful in all patients, but in three additional percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) was then successfully performed. Coronary dissection occurred only once, requiring surgery which was successful. No vessel perforation was observed. All vessels were open on the coronary angiograms performed after 24 hours. The main indication for PTCR seems to be a rigid and longer lesion which can not be dilated with the balloon catheter.