vessel calcification
Calcium deposits within coronary artery walls that complicate intervention by reducing vessel compliance and limiting balloon expansion.
Full Definition
The presence of calcium phosphate deposits within the coronary arterial wall, representing advanced atherosclerotic disease and creating technical challenges for percutaneous intervention. Calcification reduces vessel compliance, impairs balloon and stent expansion, increases risk of dissection, and may require specialized preparation techniques. Severity is assessed angiographically or through intravascular imaging, with classification systems guiding treatment strategy. Heavily calcified lesions may require rotational atherectomy, cutting balloons, or other calcium modification techniques before stent deployment to optimize procedural outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from vessel wall thickening; specify severity when documenting.
In Context
- "Severe vessel calcification necessitated rotational atherectomy before stent deployment." — Procedural note
- "The degree of vessel calcification was assessed using intravascular ultrasound imaging." — Technical report