A new technology utilizing sonic pressure waves to break up calcium deposits in blocked arteries is being adopted by cardiologists, offering a potential advancement in the treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The Shockwave Intravascular Lithotripsy (IVL) System, developed by Shockwave Medical, aims to establish a new standard of care for patients suffering from this condition.
The IVL system employs a unique mechanism of action, simplifying the treatment of cardiovascular calcium and potentially reducing the risk of complications associated with traditional procedures, according to the company. Unlike conventional angioplasty, which relies on inflating a balloon to compress plaque, the Shockwave IVL system uses sonic pressure waves to directly disrupt the calcium, making it easier to open the blocked artery.
Tanner Health System in Georgia is among the institutions implementing the technology, enabling cardiologists to target blocked blood vessels in patients with atherosclerosis. The procedure functions similarly to a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), commonly known as angioplasty, but with the addition of the lithotripsy component.
Shockwave Medical’s technology has demonstrated the ability to safely disrupt challenging calcified plaque, leading to improved patient outcomes, as highlighted in recent clinical data. The company focuses on addressing unmet needs and improving treatment options for patients with cardiovascular disease. Their portfolio includes devices for both coronary and peripheral IVL procedures.
The company is also tracking reimbursement coverage for the IVL system, with updates available regarding both coronary and peripheral applications for 2025. Johnson & Johnson MedTech recently announced the first clinical outcomes of the new IVL platform, further validating its potential impact on patient care.
Holzer Cardiovascular Services describes Shockwave’s approach as a differentiated and proprietary method of delivering sonic pressure waves locally to treat calcified plaque. The company’s stated goal is to redefine the interventional treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
