WHAT ARE THE RISKS?

A SMALL risk of heart attack and stroke — around one in 300, the same as for any angioplasty procedure (where a stent is inserted).

THERE is a theoretical risk that the sonic waves are not able to shatter the calcium deposits, however patients are carefully selected and only suitable cases treated.

‘THIS procedure carries no more risk than having a stent put in place, and less risk than the alternative, which uses a drill,’ say Dr Joe Mills, a consultant cardiologist at the Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital. ‘It is straightforward and it is likely this technique will become more important over time.’