Atherosclerotic plaques arise within the vessels， yet their morphological evolution parallels that of carbuncles and abscesses. Drawing on the pathomechanism progression of carbuncles and abscesses， this paper proposes a dynamic pathogenesis model of "constraint-putrefaction-ulceration" for atherosclerotic plaques. The formation of atherosclerotic plaque begins

with phlegm-turbidity obstruction and

qi

-blood stagnation （constraint stage）； prolonged constraint transforms into heat that scorches the vessels and forms plaques （putrefaction stage）； ultimately， toxin invades inward and ruptures the vessels， injuring the heart （ulceration stage）. Accordingly， staged differentiation and treatments are proposed. During the constraint stage， the focus is venting constraint and unblocking collaterals， clearing and relieving constraint-heat， for which

Yue Jyu Pills

（越鞠丸） and

Danzhi Xiaoyao Powder

（丹栀逍遥散） with modifications can be used. During the putrefaction stage， the method is clearing heat and dispelling abscesses， resolving stasis and dissipating knot， with modified

Wuwei Xiaodu Beverage

（五味消毒饮） and

Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction

（血府逐瘀汤）. During the ulceration stage， it is suggested to expell toxin and stasis， benefit

qi

and nourish

yin

using modified

Gualou Xiebai Banxia Decoction

（瓜蒌薤白半夏汤） and

Sheng Mai Powder

（生脉散）. This framework offers new perspectives for the differentiation and treatment of atherosclerotic plaques in traditional Chinese medicine.