J&J launches Shockwave Medical’s next-generation coronary IVL catheter

May 13, 2026 - 19:34

Johnson & Johnson has launched the Shockwave C2 Aero Coronary IVL Catheter, a new device designed to treat hardened coronary artery blockages. The catheter represents the next step in intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) technology, which uses sonic pressure waves to break up calcium deposits in the artery walls before stent placement.

The C2 Aero model was developed based on extensive feedback from physicians who have used earlier versions of the device. Key improvements focus on making the catheter easier to navigate through tight, tortuous vessels. The new design offers better deliverability, meaning doctors can guide it to the blockage site with less resistance. It also features enhanced repositioning capabilities, allowing the operator to adjust the device more precisely once it is inside the artery.

This launch comes after Johnson & Johnson completed its acquisition of Shockwave Medical earlier this year, adding the IVL platform to its cardiovascular portfolio. The company aims to address a common challenge in interventional cardiology: treating severely calcified lesions that resist traditional balloon angioplasty. By using lithotripsy to crack the calcium, the catheter helps prepare the vessel for stenting while minimizing damage to the surrounding soft tissue. The C2 Aero is now available for commercial use in the United States and select international markets.