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Coronary artery calcification is a condition wherein the coronary arteries experience a build up of calcium deposits, which cause several cardiovascular risks. There are two types of coronary artery calcification known today – intimal and medial. Intimal refers to when calcium deposits in the innermost layer of the coronary arteries, while medial refers to when deposits occur in the middle layer.
Coronary artery calcification is often characterized by several symptoms, including stable angina, shortness of breath as well as heart attacks. If you experience these symptoms, or suspect a case of coronary artery calcification, it is often advisable to seek medical aid immediately. Upon consulting with the doctor, you can understand your condition better, and avail the appropriate treatments for it.
A common treatment done to treat coronary calcification is known as Coronary Calcium treatment. Coronary calcium treatment is a form of coronary atherectomy in which a highly specialized interventional technique is used to overcome calcium deposits during a regular angioplasty. The specialist uses a medical drill, mounted with industrial diamond, and spins it at a speed close to 200,000 rotation per minute. As the drill rotates, the momentum and friction created is used to polish away the calcium deposits in the artery walls. This helps thin and weaken the calcium deposit, allowing for a full expansion of balloons and stents required to complete the angioplasty.
In a more advanced version of this procedure, specialists make use of a lithotripsy balloon. This device emits shockwaves which can break down the calcium deposits with ease. It is similar to the technology used to break down kidney stones. This advanced procedure involves the insertion of the balloon device into the problem artery, after which the shockwaves are triggered through it. The waves emitted break down the calcium deposits in the region, after which stents can be introduced with ease.
