Off-the-shelf power supplies for lithotripsy systems can save months of development time if selected early enough, according to Todd Huston of Advanced Energy.
Intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) breaks up calcified plaque using shock waves generated by electrodes inside a balloon catheter, as illustrated below.
These evolutions are enabling the treatment of symptoms in a greater range of conditions and leading to shortened hospital stays and expanding outpatient treatment options.
These advances rely on high-voltage pulsed power systems, which pose challenges in implementation.
Considering power needs early in the design cycle is crucial for successful implementation.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) remains the most widely used form of lithotripsy.
Author's summary: Advancing lithotripsy with high voltage technology.