Novel Outcomes in Calcium Fragmentation: Hertz Contact Intravascular Lithotripsy and PINNACLE I Outcomes

In this insightful interview, Dr Valeria Paradies and Dr Stefan Verheye introduce the novel Hertz Contact Intravascular Lithotripsy technology and discuss the findings and implications of PINNACLE I study. The conversation delves into the technology design and mechanism of action as well as the PINNACLE I study's design, unique results by OCT and future implications for clinical practice.¹

Doctors discuss the primary and OCT imaging endpoints of the study. The primary safety and effectiveness endpoint, residual stenosis <50% with no in-hospital MACE through discharge, was reported at 98.3%, indicating a favourable outcome. Notably, calcium fragmentation effectiveness was demonstrated across a broad range of moderate to severe calcium morphologies. Secondary endpoints in OCT imaging subgroup included calcium fractures assessment - 1+ calcium fractures were identified in 90.6% and 2-3+ fractures in 75% of lesions, with high fracture depth and width. Short procedure and fluoroscopy times were also reported demonstrating simplified and streamlined procedure and easy learning curve.¹

References:

1. Hertz Contact Intravascular Lithotripsy. PINNACLE I Trial Primary Outcomes. S. Verheye. EuroPCR 2024. 

In this interview, Dr Alasnag discusses the design and mechanism of action of the novel Hertz Contact IVL and goals and outcomes of the PINNACLE I study. She shares her view on the advantages of this novel technology vs existing calcium fragmentation solutions and the implications on the procedural workflow. While summarising the outcomes of PINNACLE I study she emphasises the simplicity of the procedure and effectiveness of the technology across a broad range of moderate to severe calcium morphologies.¹

References:

1. Hertz Contact Intravascular Lithotripsy. PINNACLE I Trial Primary Outcomes. S. Verheye. EuroPCR 2024.