What Are the Different Types of Peripheral Vascular Interventions Procedures?
Peripheral vascular interventions (PVI) offer a minimally invasive approach to address blockages and blood flow problems in peripheral arteries. Several PVI procedures exist, each suited to address specific arterial issues. Balloon angioplasty is a common technique where a tiny balloon catheter is inserted into the blocked artery. The balloon is then inflated, widening the narrowed passage and improving blood flow. In some cases, a stent, a small expandable mesh tube, is placed during angioplasty to keep the artery open long-term.
For more complex blockages or when plaque buildup is significant, atherectomy might be used. A specialized catheter with a tiny cutting device removes plaque deposits, restoring blood flow. Another procedure, thrombectomy, focuses on removing blood clots that can abruptly block arteries and cause severe symptoms. A catheter with a retrieval device is used to extract the clot and restore circulation. The choice of PVI procedure depends on the nature and severity of the blockage, allowing for a targeted approach to improve blood flow and alleviate peripheral vascular disease symptoms.
