Principles of Shock Waves Therapy in Heart :

Basically, the principle of the shock wave therapy in heart is that the cardiac shock wave can stimulate angiogenesis by releasing nitric oxide (NO) and up-regulating angiogenic growth factors (VEGF) leading to re-perfusion of ischemic tissue

Shock waves for cardiac use are generated outside the body in a water filled therapy head and coupled to the skin via a flexible membrane. Under simultaneous ultrasound control precise focussing and scanning of predetermined target areas is performed. Shock wave pulses are released in an ECG-trigger mode only during refractory phase of the cardiac cycle. After application of several thousand pulses of low energy shock waves repair mechanisms are stimulated which result in neogenisis of small vessels. This leads to a reduction of angina and over all improvement of cardiac function and metabolism. Treatment is done without anaesthesia and pain sensation. Repeated treatment sessions enhance over all treatment efficacy which is not limited to short term results.

STORZ Modulith SLC Machine :

Patented shock wave technology makes uses of a cylinder coil and parabolic focusing reflector. The cylindrical source is designed to enable in-line ultrasound localization. It features a central opening, which is ideal for the installation of an in-line ultrasound transducer.

In-line ultrasound imaging :

Simultaneous ultrasound provides online control of positioning with superior precision compared to off-line ultrasound configurations.
The cylinder shaped generator is ideally prepared to accept an in-line ultrasound imaging device.

Result :

SPECT recordings before and 6 month after CSWT document clinical improvements*
* Department of Cardiology (Director Prof. Dr. Raimund Erbel), Centre of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Essen, Germany

The result indicates that more angiogenic growth leading to re-perfusion of ischemic tissue.

Advantages :

- ECG controlled shock wave release
ECG triggering provides shock wave pulses within a few milliseconds after the QRS-complex. Pulses are released only in refractory phase of the cardiac cycle.

- Precise focus

Proprietary shock wave generator technology generates precisely defined focal zones which are adjusted with millimetre-precision utilizing a three-dimensional fine positioning device.

- Precise control of spatial shock wave field dimensions

- Large range of energy setting

- Precise synchronization with cardiac cycle

- Continued stable shock wave

- Minimal treatment cost

- Noise comfort – No ear protection required

Literatures :

1. Kikuchi: Double-Blind and Placebo-Controlled Study of the Effectiveness and Safety of Extracorporeal Cardiac Shock Wave Therapy for Severe Angina Pectoris



2. Ito: Cardiac shock wave therapy ameliorates left ventricular remodeling after myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury in pigs in vivo



3. Fukumoto: Extracorporeal cardiac shock wave therapy ameliorates myocardial ischemia in patients with severe coronary artery disease

* For further information, please contact us or visit the website of Storz Medical AG.

<Back>