In some individuals, blockages in the wall of the heart arteries can develop calcium, a very strong material that forms our bones and teeth. When there is significant calcium causing a blockage, simple measures to unblock the artery using only balloons may fail. In these situations, your Cardiologist may choose to try to use a special device that goes within the artery and acts like a superfast drill that spins and breaks up the calcium layers and then allow passage of a stent to keep the artery open. Professor Barlis discusses this technique in this video and how it may be helpful.