An atherectomy is a minimally invasive way to remove plaque from blood vessels, opening up your arteries so your blood can flow normally. Healthcare providers often use this procedure to treat peripheral artery disease (PAD). If you have this condition, an atherectomy may be one way to ease your symptoms. Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic.

Symptoms of heart disease in the blood vessels. Coronary artery disease is a common heart condition that affects the major blood vessels that supply the heart muscle. Cholesterol deposits (plaques) in the heart arteries are usually the cause of coronary artery disease. The buildup of these plaques is called atherosclerosis (ath-ur-o-skluh-ROE-sis).

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease in the United States. It is sometimes called coronary heart disease or ischemic heart disease. For some people, the first sign of CAD is a heart attack. You and your health care team may be able to help reduce your risk for CAD. What causes coronary artery disease?

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a noninflammatory, nonatherosclerotic disorder that leads to arterial stenosis, aneurysm, dissection, and arterial tortuosity [ 1 ]. It has been observed in nearly every arterial bed.