Based on the combination of the traditional TCM theory and the idea and results of modem medical research on atherosclerosis (AS), the authors understand the pathology of AS in three stages and have studied the stage-oriented differential treatment of AS, namely, 1) the formation stage of AS plaque treated with the principle of regulating the liver, nourishing the kidneys and strengthening the spleen;2) the stable stage of AS plaque treated with the principle of clearing away heat and toxic materials;and 3) the breaking stage of AS plaque treated with the principle of promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis.We propose that the TCM treatment of AS should be based on the achievements of modem medical research, utilizing stage-oriented treatment according to the different stages of the formation and development of AS plaque, so as to improve the therapeutic effects.