The Comprehensive Cardiology Unit of the La Luz University Hospital in Madrid has successfully performed a pioneering intervention using the orbital atherectomy technique to treat a severe obstruction in the coronary arteries of a 73-year-old patient with a history of cardiac surgery and high cardiovascular risk.
The procedure was performed by Dr. Jorge Palazuelos , head of the Hemodynamics Unit at the hospital, who explained that it was a particularly complex case: “The patient had already undergone coronary artery bypass surgery years ago. However, over time, his coronary artery disease had progressed, even affecting vessels that had not been treated in the previous operation.”
After experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, fatigue, and difficulty walking , the patient underwent tests that confirmed a worsening of his condition. Surgery was ruled out due to the high risk, so the hemodynamics team at La Luz University Hospital opted for a minimally invasive treatment.
The technique used, known as orbital atherectomy , allows for the removal of hardened calcifications in the arteries of the heart using a crown that rotates around the lesion. “This system orbits at high speed and ablates the calcified lesion. In this way, it breaks down the calcified plaque that obstructs the artery, even in areas that are difficult to access or have a wide angle, as in this case,” explains Dr. Palazuelos.
According to the specialist, the procedure was performed in several controlled phases, with brief 25-second passes. “By modifying the plaque with the use of high-pressure balloons and cutting balloons, we were able to widen the passage through the damaged artery and allow the placement of a stent that keeps the artery open and ensures blood flow,” he explains.
“At the end of the treatment, we performed a follow-up using optical coherence tomography, which confirmed that the result had been optimal. The patient was discharged in less than 24 hours and is at home in good condition,” the specialist added.
The Comprehensive Cardiology Unit (UICAR) will also participate as the main center in Spain in an upcoming international study called ORABIL , which will investigate the effectiveness of this technique in more complex lesions, such as coronary bifurcations. “It is an honor to be able to contribute from Spain to the advancement of these therapies that can change the lives of patients with few other options , ” concludes Dr. Jorge Palazuelos.