Revascularization in Peripheral Vascular Disease: Stents, Atherectomies, Lasers, and Thrombolytics

Peripheral vascular disease affects a significant number of individuals. Signs and symptoms may develop because of partial or total vessel occlusion due to plaque, dissection, or thrombus. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty is effective as an Independent intervention to open occluded vessels and also may be combined with other nonsurgical therapies such as stents, atherectomy, or laser treatments. Thrombolytics also are used to treat acute or chronic occlusions. The nurse’s role in treating and monitoring the patient is key in minimizing complications during and after intervention