At the University of Miami Health System, we offer the latest techniques for improving blood flow and removing plaque (fatty buildup) from the walls of arteries. Our expert vascular surgeons use laser atherectomy to burn away plaque related to coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease and other conditions.  

Candidates

You may qualify for laser atherectomy if you have plaque buildup on the walls of your arteries.

What to Expect

Before scheduling your laser atherectomy procedure, your doctor may perform a physical exam and run some blood tests to ensure you are healthy enough for the procedure. 

During laser atherectomy, you will be asleep under general anesthesia. Because of the anesthesia, it is important to tell your doctor about any medicines you take. You should also avoid eating or drinking for several hours before your procedure.

Once you are anesthetized, your surgeon will make a small incision in your groin. They will use live X-ray images to guide a wire through the femoral (leg) artery to the area where blood flow is reduced by plaque. They will then place a tube (catheter) over the guide wire. They will insert special tools, including a laser, through the catheter.

When the laser is in place, your doctor will use it to burn away plaque build-up on the walls of your artery. They will be able to see their progress using contrast dye and X-ray images. 

After enough of the plaque is destroyed, your surgeon removes the catheter and laser. They will close the incision in your groin. You will be taken to a room to lie flat for a few hours. Then a nurse will help you get up and move around. You may be able to go home the same day or the next day after your laser atherectomy procedure.

Why Choose UHealth?

Leading-edge imaging care in South Florida. Our doctors are also researchers discovering new ways to improve diagnosis and treatment. That means you can get some of today’s most promising advancements through clinical trials. You benefit from the latest developments that are fast-tracked from the lab to the bedside.

Advanced, hard-to-find procedures. Our doctors are committed to caring for every patient. That’s why they offer the latest treatments, including limb salvage, endovascular grafting and thoracic outlet decompression, to improve your blood flow. 

All the care you need, from one physician. Our vascular surgeons perform a wide range of procedures so you can have the same physician for any vascular care you need as your condition changes. Whether you need a stent replaced or a vein grafted, you can always turn to the doctor you trust.

Experienced doctors, reliable results. UHealth vascular surgeons perform hundreds of stent placements, angiograms and more every year. You can rely on their experience to help you avoid complications and have a positive outcome.