Importance

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Abstract

Shock-waves are applied using a combination lithotripsy probe/balloon system, comprising a needle and cannular balloon which can be inserted through the skin at a point between the ribs into the cavity beneath the chest wall and overlying the heart. Alternatively, the shock-wave can be administered extracorporally or via a catheter. A fluid injector is connected to the balloon, allowing it to be inflated with saline or other appropriate fluid to fill the space (for transmission of shock waves and/or to displace tissue--such as lung) and contact the surface of the heart. A shock-wave (acoustic) generator is used to generate shock-waves through the lithotripsy probe, through the fluid and into the myocardial tissue. The fluid provides a uniform medium for transmission of the acoustic energy, allowing precise focus and direction of the shock-wave to induce repeatable cavitation events, producing small fissures which are created by the cavitation bubbles. In this case, channels would not be `drilled` into the heart muscle, minimizing trauma to the tissue while still creating conditions that will stimulate increased expression of angiogenic growth factors.

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First Claim