Calcified Lesions - IVL/Orbital Atherectomy

Calcified lesions are hardened calcium deposits within the arterial walls that make blood vessels rigid, narrow, and difficult to treat with conventional angioplasty or stenting. These complex blockages can prevent proper stent expansion and increase the risk of procedural complications if not adequately prepared. Advanced plaque-modification technologies such as Intravascular Lithotripsy (IVL) and Orbital Atherectomy are specifically designed to address these challenges by safely breaking down and modifying calcified plaque before definitive treatment. IVL uses controlled sonic pressure waves to fracture deep calcium, while orbital atherectomy sands and smooths the calcified surface to restore vessel compliance. Together, these techniques enable better stent delivery and expansion, improve procedural success, and enhance long-term outcomes in patients with heavily calcified coronary or peripheral arteries.