Shockwave Therapy for Blocked Arteries

If you receive a diagnosis of coronary artery disease, you have a new treatment option at Adventist HealthCare Heart & Vascular Institute. Shockwave therapy uses sound waves to break up calcium in your blood vessels and let blood flow more freely, relieving chest pain and other symptoms. You’re in good hands at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center, which has performed this procedure longer than any other hospital in the Washington, D.C. region.

What to Expect

You’ll lie on a table while an interventional cardiologist makes a small incision over an artery in your upper thigh or wrist. Then, the physician inserts a soft tube called a catheter with a tiny generator that emits shockwaves. The device uses lithotripsy, the same technology used to break up kidney stones in the urinary tract.

With imaging guidance, the cardiologist threads the device up to your blocked heart artery and dissolves the built-up calcium. Next, a tiny balloon inflates in the artery to widen it. Finally, the doctor places a thin, metal tube (stent) to keep the artery open so blood can flow better to your heart. The stent stays in your body after the procedure, but the cardiologist withdraws the catheter and balloon.

Advantages Over Other Treatments

The shockwave procedure includes angioplasty, a common treatment that uses a balloon and stent to open narrowed arteries. Angioplasty alone may not be enough if your arteries have very hard calcium deposits that would resist even a high-pressure balloon.

Another treatment option is atherectomy, which uses a tiny drill to crack calcium. But the shockwave procedure is easier to perform and has a lower risk of complications (side effects).

Results

When blood flows better to your heart, you may feel more energetic and have a lower risk of heart attack or heart failure. But you’ll likely also need to make lifestyle changes to prevent calcium from building up again. Continue to see your cardiologist for help keeping your heart and blood vessels healthy for years to come.

Cardiac Rehabilitation

After your procedure, your doctor may prescribe cardiac rehabilitation to help you safely regain strength, endurance and energy. Over 12 weeks, you’ll meet with our team of exercise physiologists (medical exercise specialists), nurses, dietitians and other professionals for exercise and education. We’ll help you set goals, track your progress and reach your potential.