IVL or Intravascular Lithotripsy, is a minimally invasive technique used in cardiology to treat calcified coronary artery lesions. A special catheter with an integrated balloon and lithotripsy emitter is inserted into the blocked artery, typically through the groin or wrist. Once positioned at the site of the calcification, the balloon is inflated, and low-energy sonic pressure waves are delivered to the plaque. These pressure waves create microfractures in the calcified plaque, allowing for better expansion of the artery and improved blood flow.
By safely modifying the calcified plaque, IVL helps to optimize stent delivery and expansion, reducing the risk of complications such as vessel dissection or perforation or inadequate stent deployment.
