What Is Revascularization?

Revascularization is a medical procedure that restores blood flow to an artery or vein that has been blocked or narrowed. This can be done through surgery, angioplasty, or other methods.

Revascularization is often used to treat:

- Coronary artery disease: This is a condition in which the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked. Revascularization can be done to improve blood flow to the heart and reduce the risk of a heart attack.

- Peripheral artery disease: This is a condition in which the arteries in the legs or arms become narrowed or blocked. Revascularization can be done to improve circulation and relieve symptoms such as pain, numbness, and cramping.

- Carotid artery disease: This is a condition in which the arteries that supply blood to the brain become narrowed or blocked. Revascularization can be done to prevent a stroke.

Revascularization can be a complex procedure, but it is often effective in restoring blood flow and improving symptoms. The type of revascularization that is best for a particular patient will depend on the underlying condition and the severity of the blockage.

Here are some of the different types of revascularization procedures:

- Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG): This is a surgical procedure that involves grafting a healthy artery or vein from another part of the body onto the blocked coronary artery. This creates a new pathway for blood to flow to the heart.

- Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI): This is a non-surgical procedure that involves inserting a small balloon into the blocked coronary artery and inflating it to widen the artery. A stent may also be placed to keep the artery open.

- Carotid endarterectomy (CEA): This is a surgical procedure that involves removing the plaque that is blocking the carotid artery.

- Peripheral artery bypass grafting (PABG): This is a surgical procedure that involves grafting a healthy artery or vein from another part of the body onto the blocked peripheral artery. This creates a new pathway for blood to flow to the leg or arm.

- Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA): This is a non-surgical procedure that involves inserting a small balloon into the blocked peripheral artery and inflating it to widen the artery. A stent may also be placed to keep the artery open.

Revascularization is a major medical procedure, but it can be a lifesaving treatment for people with severe artery or vein blockages. Talk to your doctor about whether revascularization is right for you.