Intravascular shock wave lithotripsy, or IVL, is a medical procedure used to treat calcium buildup in arteries, a condition called calcified plaque. The procedure involves the use of high-energy shock waves delivered directly to the calcified plaque, breaking it up into small particles that can be naturally eliminated by the body. Here are some important points about this procedure: Details of the procedure: The procedure involves the insertion of a small catheter into the artery, which is guided to the area of calcified plaque. Once the catheter is in position, a specialized device emits shock waves to the targeted area, breaking up the calcified plaque into small particles. The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes to complete and is typically performed under local anesthesia. Risk and safety related to the procedure: IVL is generally considered a safe procedure with a low risk of complications. However, there is a small risk of damage to the artery wall or surrounding tissue, which can lead to bleeding or other complications. Additionally, IVL may not be suitable for patients with certain medical conditions or those taking certain medications. Other procedures for treating calcium: Other procedures that may be used to treat calcified plaque include balloon angioplasty and atherectomy. In balloon angioplasty, a small balloon is inflated inside the artery to compress the plaque against the arterial wall, thereby widening the artery. Rare chances of vessel perforation are there. In atherectomy, a catheter is used to physically remove the plaque from the artery. But the chances of injury to vessel wall are higher compared to IVL. Success rate: IVL has been shown to be an effective treatment for calcified plaque, with success rates ranging from 85% to 90%. The procedure has been shown to significantly improve blood flow and reduce the risk of complications such as heart attack and stroke. In conclusion, IVL is a safe and effective procedure for treating calcified plaque in arteries. While there is a small risk of complications, the benefits of the procedure in terms of reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke are significant. In our experience IVL is a safe and effective technique for treating calcified blockages in coronary arteries. Other procedures such as balloon angioplasty and atherectomy may also be effective, depending on the individual patient's needs and medical history.