Rotational Atherectomy

In a rotational atherectomy, Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital interventional cardiologists use a revolving instrument to break up calcified plaque that is clogging a coronary artery. Breaking up the plaque restores blood flow to the heart. 

We use rotational atherectomies for particularly tough blockages. The procedure involves navigating a catheter fitted with a Rotablator device through the site of the blockage, under a local anesthetic. The device then rotates at a speed of up to 150,000 rpm, gently pulverizing the blockage into tiny particles that can pass safely through the bloodstream. The procedure takes effect almost immediately. Within approximately five minutes, your blood flow and heart function will improve.

Our cardiologists sometimes use a rotational atherectomy with a left ventricular assist device, to give us enough time to perform the procedure as planned. We may also combine rotational atherectomies with stent placement.

Our interventional cardiologists are renowned for performing this complex procedure. Specifically, at The Mount Sinai Hospital, we manage the highest volume of rotational atherectomy in the country and are widely recognized for our success rate.