Interventional procedure overview of intravascular lithotripsy for calcified arteries in peripheral arterial disease
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What the procedure involves
Arterial access is established as for a standard angioplasty, usually through the femoral artery in the groin. An angioplasty balloon with ultrasound element is introduced and inflated next to the heavily calcified arterial plaques. The pressure exerted by the balloon is too low to expand the vessel but high enough to ensure good contact between the surface of the balloon and the arterial walls. Ultrasound pulses are then transmitted from the balloon, fracturing superficial and deep calcium within the arterial wall. A stent is sometimes inserted after the lithotripsy to keep the artery patent. The procedure is used as a preparatory treatment for balloon angioplasty or as an alternative to standard angioplasty.
The aim of intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) is to improve the blood flow in the affected limb and prevent the need for amputation.
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