What should I expect after having atherectomy for CAD?

After an atherectomy for coronary artery disease (CAD), you will be moved to a recovery room or to the coronary care unit. Your heart rate, pulse and blood pressure will be closely monitored, and the catheter insertion site will be checked for bleeding. To prevent bleeding, you may have a large bandage or a compression device on the catheter insertion site. You will be instructed to keep your leg straight if the insertion site is in your groin area.

You most likely will start walking within 12 to 24 hours after an atherectomy. The average hospital stay is 1 to 2 days for uncomplicated procedures. After several days, you may resume exercise and driving.

After atherectomy you will most likely take medicine, such as aspirin and another antiplatelet such as clopidogrel, to help prevent the formation of blood clots.

After your procedure, you might attend a cardiac rehabilitation program. In cardiac rehab, a team of health professionals provides education and support to help you recover and make new, healthy habits, such as eating right and getting more exercise. Making these changes is just as important as getting treatment in keeping your heart healthy and your arteries open.