Calcified lesions often increase the complexity of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and risk of future adverse events. Shockwave intravascular lithotripsy (S-IVL; Shockwave Medical) has been shown to be an effective calcium-modification tool in preparing calcified coronary lesions prior to stent placement. Its circumferential, pulsatile soundwaves provide a different mechanism to fracture calcium compared with existing devices such as rotational atherectomy and cutting balloons. Although short-term safety outcomes have been positive, longer-term outcomes have yet to be reported. We previously described the first real-world series of PCI involving S-IVL, including use in acute coronary syndromes and left main interventions. We report the 1-year outcomes of patients treated with S-IVL during their PCI.
Keywords: Shockwave lithotripsy; clinical outcomes.