Microcirculatory Status After Intravascular Lithotripsy

IVL is a novel balloon catheter-based device that utilises pulsatile mechanical energy to disrupt calcified lesions. IVL differs from other types of lithotripsy with respect to depth of penetration. It is a single-use, sterile, disposable balloon catheter. The emitters convert electrical energy into transient acoustic circumferential pressure pulses that disrupt both superficial and deep calcium within plaque. The balloon catheter is connected to the generator, which is programmed to deliver the specified dosage of pulses. The IVL balloon, sized 1:1 to the reference artery ratio, is inflated low pressure (4 atm) with 10 pulses of ultrasound energy of 10s delivered per balloon. The procedure is repeated to provide a minimum of 20 pulses in the target lesion, with interval deflation to allow distal perfusion. Each catheter can emit a max of 80 pulses at a rate of one pulse per second. If the lesion exceeds the 12mm balloon length, the balloon can be repositioned and the IVL repeated.