directional coronary atherectomy
Also written as: DCA — Directional Coronary Atherectomy
A percutaneous intervention technique using a catheter with a cutting blade to remove atherosclerotic plaque from coronary arteries.
Full Definition
Directional coronary atherectomy (DCA) is an interventional cardiology procedure that employs a specialized catheter equipped with a cutting blade and collection chamber to excise and remove atherosclerotic plaque material from coronary vessel walls. Unlike balloon angioplasty which compresses plaque, DCA physically debulks the lesion by cutting away plaque tissue. The technique is particularly useful for eccentric lesions and ostial disease where optimal stent expansion may be challenging. Modern applications are limited due to improved stent technology, but DCA remains valuable for specific lesion morphologies.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as DCA in procedural documentation. Distinguish from rotational atherectomy which uses a different cutting mechanism.
In Context
- "The operator chose directional coronary atherectomy to debulk the heavily calcified ostial LAD lesion before stent deployment." — Procedural report
- "DCA was performed with adequate plaque removal as evidenced by the tissue retrieved in the collection chamber." — Catheterization laboratory note