Rotablator

What is it?

This is a procedure which attempts to “bore out” a narrowing in a coronary artery which might not otherwise respond to stenting.

The test involves the insertion of a long thin catheter into an artery in the groin or wrist under local anaesthetic. The catheter is moved up the inside of the artery until it reaches the heart. When the catheter is in place, a small amount of dye will be injected into it. X-rays will be taken as the dye travels through the coronary arteries. A specially-designed burr is used to grind away the blockage.

Preparation

You will need to fast for 6 hours prior to the procedure. Hospital admission is required and is generally an overnight stay.

Take all of your usual medications unless instructed otherwise by your cardiologist.

You may not drive after the procedure and are also not allowed to be alone that evening.

Results

Your doctor will inform you of the results at the end of the procedure. A follow up appointment will more than likely be organized a couple of weeks later in the consulting rooms.

If you are a patient undergoing this procedure and you have any further queries, please raise them with your cardiologist.