• PAD Treatment

Atherectomy

REMOVE THE BLOCKAGE.
RESTORE THE FLOW. GET BACK TO LIVING.

A minimally invasive procedure that physically removes hardened plaque from blocked arteries, restoring circulation to your legs without open surgery.

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HOW IT WORKS

Atherectomy in 4 Simple Steps

  • Local Anesthesia & Sedation – To keep you comfortable, we administer local anesthesia along with mild sedation.

01

Access

A small catheter is inserted into an artery in the groin or arm.

02

Device Advances

The specialized atherectomy device is guided to the blocked area.

03

Plaque Removal

The device removes hardened plaque & calcium buildup from the artery.

04

Blood Flow Restored

The artery is opened, allowing healthy blood flow to be restored.

BENEFITS

Atherectomy vs Other Treatments

Artery Cross-Section - Before & After

BeforeAfter
MINIMAL INVASIVE TREATMENTS SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED
MINIMAL INVASIVE TREATMENTS SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED

Treatment options

How we treat PAD at HVLC

RECOVERY TIMELINE

What to expect after Atherectomy.
Most patients go home the same day and return to light activities within a few days.

Recovery Timeline
DAY 0

Same-Day Recovery

Rest while your access site is monitored. Go home with a driver.

FIRST 24 HOURS

Rest & Monitor

Take it easy, drink fluids, and check the access site.

DAYS 2-3

Light Activity

Resume light activity. Avoid heavy lifting as directed.

WITHIN 1 WEEK

Back to Routine

Most patients gradually return to normal daily activities.

FOLLOW-UP

Protect Your Progress

Take prescribed medications and keep your follow-up appointments.

BENEFITS

How Atherectomy Helps

Removes Plaque Buildup

Restores Blood Flow

May Relieve PAD Symptoms

May Support Wound Healing

Minimally Invasive

Same-Day Outpatient Care

PATIENT STORIES

See What Recovery Can Look Like

COMMON QUESTIONS

Frequently asked questions

Is atherectomy the same as angioplasty?

No – but they are often performed together. Angioplasty uses a balloon to compress plaque against the artery wall and widen the channel. Atherectomy physically removes the plaque from inside the artery. Atherectomy is typically used when plaque is heavily calcified and too hard for a balloon to compress effectively. In many cases, atherectomy is performed first to clear the artery, followed by angioplasty and stenting to hold it open.

No. Atherectomy at HVLC is performed under local anaesthesia only. The entry site is numbed and you are awake throughout. You can speak to us at any point during the procedure. Sedation may be offered if needed. There is no general anaesthetic, no surgical incision, and no stitches.

How long will I be at the clinic? Can I drive myself home?

Answer:  Most patients are at the clinic for 3–4 hours in total, including the procedure and the recovery monitoring period. You cannot drive yourself home – please arrange for someone to collect you. Most patients go home the same afternoon. We will confirm the exact timing when we book your appointment.

The entry site is numbed with local anaesthesia so you should feel very little. During the procedure some patients feel mild pressure or warmth at the site – this is normal. You will not feel the device working inside the artery. If you feel any discomfort at any point, tell us immediately and we will address it. Some soreness at the entry site for 1–2 days after the procedure is common and expected.

Yes. Medicare covers atherectomy for peripheral artery disease when it is medically indicated. Most Medicare Advantage, Medi-Cal, and commercial PPO plans also cover this procedure. Our team verifies your specific coverage before your appointment so there are no surprises at the desk. Call us at 661-324-4100 to check your plan before booking.

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5020 Commerce Dr

5020 Commerce Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93309

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