As intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) therapy matures, the conversation is shifting from proving the technology works to optimizing the procedural experience. The focus is no longer just on what IVL does, but how it integrates into the complex, time-pressured environment of modern interventional suites — whether in the cath lab, hybrid O.R., or other procedural settings. For physicians and teams, the day-to-day experience with an IVL system — from setup to therapy activation to procedural feedback — directly influences treatment efficiency, workflow, and adoption.
For readers new to IVL technology: Think of usability as the difference between a sophisticated race car that requires a pit crew of engineers versus one that any skilled driver can operate intuitively. Both might have the same horsepower, but only one allows the driver to focus entirely on performance rather than managing the machine.
As IVL adoption expands across more centers and physician users, utility has become a primary driver of procedural efficiency, staff satisfaction, and patient outcomes. It encompasses every interaction between the clinical team and the technology — from initial generator setup to therapy activation to real-time procedural feedback. A system with high usability integrates seamlessly into existing workflows, provides clear and actionable information, and allows physicians to remain focused on the patient rather than managing technical complexities.
Conversely, systems with usability challenges introduce procedural friction — delays, logistical hurdles, and cognitive burdens that can detract from the core clinical task of treating calcified lesions effectively and safely.
This article examines how usability varies across leading IVL platforms, focusing on the critical components that define the user experience: generator and console architecture, power source requirements, catheter connection methods, and the interface for activating and controlling therapy.
As intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) therapy matures, the conversation is shifting from proving the technology works to optimizing the procedural experience. The focus is no longer just on what IVL does, but how it integrates into the complex, time-pressured environment of modern interventional suites — whether in the cath lab, hybrid O.R., or other procedural settings. For physicians and teams, the day-to-day experience with an IVL system — from setup to therapy activation to procedural feedback — directly influences treatment efficiency, workflow, and adoption.
For readers new to IVL technology: Think of usability as the difference between a sophisticated race car that requires a pit crew of engineers versus one that any skilled driver can operate intuitively. Both might have the same horsepower, but only one allows the driver to focus entirely on performance rather than managing the machine.
As IVL adoption expands across more centers and physician users, utility has become a primary driver of procedural efficiency, staff satisfaction, and patient outcomes. It encompasses every interaction between the clinical team and the technology — from initial generator setup to therapy activation to real-time procedural feedback. A system with high usability integrates seamlessly into existing workflows, provides clear and actionable information, and allows physicians to remain focused on the patient rather than managing technical complexities.
Conversely, systems with usability challenges introduce procedural friction — delays, logistical hurdles, and cognitive burdens that can detract from the core clinical task of treating calcified lesions effectively and safely.
This article examines how usability varies across leading IVL platforms, focusing on the critical components that define the user experience: generator and console architecture, power source requirements, catheter connection methods, and the interface for activating and controlling therapy.
As intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) therapy matures, the conversation is shifting from proving the technology works to optimizing the procedural experience. The focus is no longer just on what IVL does, but how it integrates into the complex, time-pressured environment of modern interventional suites — whether in the cath lab, hybrid O.R., or other procedural settings. For physicians and teams, the day-to-day experience with an IVL system — from setup to therapy activation to procedural feedback — directly influences treatment efficiency, workflow, and adoption.
For readers new to IVL technology: Think of usability as the difference between a sophisticated race car that requires a pit crew of engineers versus one that any skilled driver can operate intuitively. Both might have the same horsepower, but only one allows the driver to focus entirely on performance rather than managing the machine.
As IVL adoption expands across more centers and physician users, utility has become a primary driver of procedural efficiency, staff satisfaction, and patient outcomes. It encompasses every interaction between the clinical team and the technology — from initial generator setup to therapy activation to real-time procedural feedback. A system with high usability integrates seamlessly into existing workflows, provides clear and actionable information, and allows physicians to remain focused on the patient rather than managing technical complexities.
Conversely, systems with usability challenges introduce procedural friction — delays, logistical hurdles, and cognitive burdens that can detract from the core clinical task of treating calcified lesions effectively and safely.
This article examines how usability varies across leading IVL platforms, focusing on the critical components that define the user experience: generator and console architecture, power source requirements, catheter connection methods, and the interface for activating and controlling therapy.
As intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) therapy matures, the conversation is shifting from proving the technology works to optimizing the procedural experience. The focus is no longer just on what IVL does, but how it integrates into the complex, time-pressured environment of modern interventional suites — whether in the cath lab, hybrid O.R., or other procedural settings. For physicians and teams, the day-to-day experience with an IVL system — from setup to therapy activation to procedural feedback — directly influences treatment efficiency, workflow, and adoption.
For readers new to IVL technology: Think of usability as the difference between a sophisticated race car that requires a pit crew of engineers versus one that any skilled driver can operate intuitively. Both might have the same horsepower, but only one allows the driver to focus entirely on performance rather than managing the machine.
As IVL adoption expands across more centers and physician users, utility has become a primary driver of procedural efficiency, staff satisfaction, and patient outcomes. It encompasses every interaction between the clinical team and the technology — from initial generator setup to therapy activation to real-time procedural feedback. A system with high usability integrates seamlessly into existing workflows, provides clear and actionable information, and allows physicians to remain focused on the patient rather than managing technical complexities.
Conversely, systems with usability challenges introduce procedural friction — delays, logistical hurdles, and cognitive burdens that can detract from the core clinical task of treating calcified lesions effectively and safely.
This article examines how usability varies across leading IVL platforms, focusing on the critical components that define the user experience: generator and console architecture, power source requirements, catheter connection methods, and the interface for activating and controlling therapy.
In a Flash⚡
Usability & Workflow
What is IVL usability?
In intravascular lithotripsy (IVL), usability refers to how seamlessly a system integrates into clinical workflow — from initial device setup to final therapy delivery. This encompasses console design, power source reliability, catheter connection methods, therapy activation interfaces, and sterile field management. Effective usability minimizes procedural complexity, reduces cognitive load, and maximizes operator focus and efficiency.
Why do usability challenges matter?
Usability challenges create procedural friction that can have significant clinical and operational consequences. Poor system design can lead to case delays, increased setup complexity, and workflow disruptions that compromise both efficiency and patient safety. When physicians must navigate cumbersome interfaces, manage multiple connection components, or work around unreliable power sources, their attention shifts from optimal patient care to technical problem-solving — potentially affecting procedural outcomes and overall case success.
What are the key usability factors in IVL systems?
The primary usability components include:
Console integration and footprint: affects space utilization and workflow integration
Power source and charging requirements: determines system readiness and procedural reliability
Therapy activation method: influences operator efficiency and cognitive load
Sterile field management (dongle use): impacts setup time and contamination risk
User interface and procedural feedback: affects clinical decision making and physician confidence
These components collectively determine how seamlessly the system integrates into existing workflows and how much cognitive burden it places on the clinical team during procedures.
What sets FastWave’s usability apart?
The FastWave Artero™ and Sola™ platforms are engineered to address the most common usability friction points found in earlier IVL systems. Both feature a compact, plug-and-play, AC-powered console that is always ready to use, eliminating concerns about battery life or charging status. The catheter connects directly to the generator without dongles or intermediate components, streamlining setup and reducing the risk of lost or contaminated parts. Therapy activation requires one simple click, while the interface provides real-time feedback that supports clinical decision-making. These design choices minimize procedural complexity, reduce operator workload, and minimize cognitive load.
How Does IVL Console Design Affect Procedural Workflow?
The physical design of an IVL console — its size, power source, and integration requirements — creates cascading effects throughout the clinical environment. These seemingly technical specifications directly impact workflow efficiency, staff responsibilities, and procedural reliability.
First-generation IVL systems: Feature a portable, battery-powered generator designed to be mounted on an IV pole. While compact, the rechargeable DC battery requires consistent charging between cases to ensure availability. If the battery is depleted, the system cannot be used during recharging, creating potential for procedure delays or cancellations.
Other laser-based IVL systems: Built around larger, AC-powered consoles that ensure constant power readiness. However, its larger physical footprint can be a drawback in cath labs or interventional suites where space is limited. The console's cost structure may also require capital equipment procurement — introducing lengthy approval processes and budget complexities.
FastWave Artero™: Features a compact, AC-powered console that combines constant power readiness with minimal physical footprint. The low-cost design enables easy integration into existing procedural environments without requiring capital budget approval or workflow disruption.
FastWave Sola™: Uses a compact, AC-powered console. This ensures consistent system availability while avoiding the logistics and space constraints that can complicate operations.
How Does IVL Console Design Affect Procedural Workflow?
The physical design of an IVL console — its size, power source, and integration requirements — creates cascading effects throughout the clinical environment. These seemingly technical specifications directly impact workflow efficiency, staff responsibilities, and procedural reliability.
First-generation IVL systems: Feature a portable, battery-powered generator designed to be mounted on an IV pole. While compact, the rechargeable DC battery requires consistent charging between cases to ensure availability. If the battery is depleted, the system cannot be used during recharging, creating potential for procedure delays or cancellations.
Other laser-based IVL systems: Built around larger, AC-powered consoles that ensure constant power readiness. However, its larger physical footprint can be a drawback in cath labs or interventional suites where space is limited. The console's cost structure may also require capital equipment procurement — introducing lengthy approval processes and budget complexities.
FastWave Artero™: Features a compact, AC-powered console that combines constant power readiness with minimal physical footprint. The low-cost design enables easy integration into existing procedural environments without requiring capital budget approval or workflow disruption.
FastWave Sola™: Uses a compact, AC-powered console. This ensures consistent system availability while avoiding the logistics and space constraints that can complicate operations.
How Does IVL Console Design Affect Procedural Workflow?
The physical design of an IVL console — its size, power source, and integration requirements — creates cascading effects throughout the clinical environment. These seemingly technical specifications directly impact workflow efficiency, staff responsibilities, and procedural reliability.
First-generation IVL systems: Feature a portable, battery-powered generator designed to be mounted on an IV pole. While compact, the rechargeable DC battery requires consistent charging between cases to ensure availability. If the battery is depleted, the system cannot be used during recharging, creating potential for procedure delays or cancellations.
Other laser-based IVL systems: Built around larger, AC-powered consoles that ensure constant power readiness. However, its larger physical footprint can be a drawback in cath labs or interventional suites where space is limited. The console's cost structure may also require capital equipment procurement — introducing lengthy approval processes and budget complexities.
FastWave Artero™: Features a compact, AC-powered console that combines constant power readiness with minimal physical footprint. The low-cost design enables easy integration into existing procedural environments without requiring capital budget approval or workflow disruption.
FastWave Sola™: Uses a compact, AC-powered console. This ensures consistent system availability while avoiding the logistics and space constraints that can complicate operations.
How Does IVL Console Design Affect Procedural Workflow?
The physical design of an IVL console — its size, power source, and integration requirements — creates cascading effects throughout the clinical environment. These seemingly technical specifications directly impact workflow efficiency, staff responsibilities, and procedural reliability.
First-generation IVL systems: Feature a portable, battery-powered generator designed to be mounted on an IV pole. While compact, the rechargeable DC battery requires consistent charging between cases to ensure availability. If the battery is depleted, the system cannot be used during recharging, creating potential for procedure delays or cancellations.
Other laser-based IVL systems: Built around larger, AC-powered consoles that ensure constant power readiness. However, its larger physical footprint can be a drawback in cath labs or interventional suites where space is limited. The console's cost structure may also require capital equipment procurement — introducing lengthy approval processes and budget complexities.
FastWave Artero™: Features a compact, AC-powered console that combines constant power readiness with minimal physical footprint. The low-cost design enables easy integration into existing procedural environments without requiring capital budget approval or workflow disruption.
FastWave Sola™: Uses a compact, AC-powered console. This ensures consistent system availability while avoiding the logistics and space constraints that can complicate operations.
FastWave’s Artero™ console (left) offers instant power readiness in a compact form factor that integrates easily into setups — shown here beside a first-generation IVL console (right).
Therapy Delivery
240 seconds (1 Hz)
32 seconds (5 Hz)
Cycle Pause Periods
240 seconds
Few pulses at slower frequency
(1-2 Hz) result in longer procedures
0 seconds
More pulses at faster frequency
(4 Hz)
Treatment Length
12mm
Few pulses at slower frequency
(1-2 Hz) result in longer procedures
24mm
More pulses at faster frequency
(4 Hz)
Total Therapy Time
240 seconds*
32 seconds*
*FastWave's 24mm length balloon does not require repositioning compared to the 12mm length balloons
with first-generation IVL technology.
First-Generation IVL
Therapy Delivery
240 seconds (1 Hz)
Cycle Pause Periods
240 seconds
Treatment Length
12mm
Total Therapy Time
480 seconds*
First-Generation IVL
Therapy Delivery
240 seconds (1 Hz)
Cycle Pause Periods
240 seconds
Treatment Length
12mm
Total Therapy Time
480 seconds*
First-Generation IVL
Therapy Delivery
240 seconds (1 Hz)
Cycle Pause Periods
240 seconds
Treatment Length
12mm
Total Therapy Time
480 seconds*
First-Generation IVL
Therapy Delivery
240 seconds (1 Hz)
Cycle Pause Periods
240 seconds
Treatment Length
12mm
Total Therapy Time
480 seconds*
Why it matters: Console design decisions create operational ripple effects throughout clinical environments. Battery-dependent systems introduce critical failure points and require staff to manage charging schedules that can disrupt case flow. Large console footprints can force procedural suite layout modifications, while capital equipment models create financial barriers that delay technology adoption. Compact, AC-powered systems eliminate these operational hurdles, making advanced IVL therapy more accessible and predictable for daily clinical use across diverse interventional settings.
Why it matters: Console design decisions create operational ripple effects throughout clinical environments. Battery-dependent systems introduce critical failure points and require staff to manage charging schedules that can disrupt case flow. Large console footprints can force procedural suite layout modifications, while capital equipment models create financial barriers that delay technology adoption. Compact, AC-powered systems eliminate these operational hurdles, making advanced IVL therapy more accessible and predictable for daily clinical use across diverse interventional settings.
Why it matters: Console design decisions create operational ripple effects throughout clinical environments. Battery-dependent systems introduce critical failure points and require staff to manage charging schedules that can disrupt case flow. Large console footprints can force procedural suite layout modifications, while capital equipment models create financial barriers that delay technology adoption. Compact, AC-powered systems eliminate these operational hurdles, making advanced IVL therapy more accessible and predictable for daily clinical use across diverse interventional settings.
Why it matters: Console design decisions create operational ripple effects throughout clinical environments. Battery-dependent systems introduce critical failure points and require staff to manage charging schedules that can disrupt case flow. Large console footprints can force procedural suite layout modifications, while capital equipment models create financial barriers that delay technology adoption. Compact, AC-powered systems eliminate these operational hurdles, making advanced IVL therapy more accessible and predictable for daily clinical use across diverse interventional settings.
How Does Therapy Activation and Feedback Influence Procedural Control?
The interaction between the physician and the IVL system during therapy delivery is a critical determinant of usability. The method of activation, the quality of feedback from the user interface, and the degree of real-time control afforded to the operator directly influence procedural ergonomics, treatment precision, and the ability to adapt to challenging lesions.¹
First-generation IVL systems: Requires the operator to press and hold a button on the reusable connector cable — a “continual hold” mechanism that demands constant engagement. This can be fatiguing during longer treatments and distracting during complex procedures. The user interface provides basic feedback, limited to pulse count and battery status.
Other laser IVL systems: Offers selective emitter control, allowing operators to activate fixed emitters individually and direct energy more deliberately toward a specific area of calcification. While procedural feedback is improved, interface complexity may introduce a steeper learning curve or potential for information overload.
FastWave Artero™: Designed for one-click, hands-free therapy activation. A single press of a button initiates the full cycle of 30 pulses, freeing the operator to focus on imaging, positioning, and overall case management. The console provides relevant, real-time feedback, including remaining pulse count.
FastWave Sola™: Combines the same one-click therapy activation of Artero™ with translational control of the emitter. With a single click, the physician can intuitively control therapy delivery via the catheter handle by translating the energy source along the length of the balloon, effectively directing energy where needed. The interface is also designed to provide proactive procedural feedback.
How Does Therapy Activation and Feedback Influence Procedural Control?
The interaction between the physician and the IVL system during therapy delivery is a critical determinant of usability. The method of activation, the quality of feedback from the user interface, and the degree of real-time control afforded to the operator directly influence procedural ergonomics, treatment precision, and the ability to adapt to challenging lesions.¹
First-generation IVL systems: Requires the operator to press and hold a button on the reusable connector cable — a “continual hold” mechanism that demands constant engagement. This can be fatiguing during longer treatments and distracting during complex procedures. The user interface provides basic feedback, limited to pulse count and battery status.
Other laser IVL systems: Offers selective emitter control, allowing operators to activate fixed emitters individually and direct energy more deliberately toward a specific area of calcification. While procedural feedback is improved, interface complexity may introduce a steeper learning curve or potential for information overload.
FastWave Artero™: Designed for one-click, hands-free therapy activation. A single press of a button initiates the full cycle of 30 pulses, freeing the operator to focus on imaging, positioning, and overall case management. The console provides relevant, real-time feedback, including remaining pulse count.
FastWave Sola™: Combines the same one-click therapy activation of Artero™ with translational control of the emitter. With a single click, the physician can intuitively control therapy delivery via the catheter handle by translating the energy source along the length of the balloon, effectively directing energy where needed. The interface is also designed to provide proactive procedural feedback.
How Does Therapy Activation and Feedback Influence Procedural Control?
The interaction between the physician and the IVL system during therapy delivery is a critical determinant of usability. The method of activation, the quality of feedback from the user interface, and the degree of real-time control afforded to the operator directly influence procedural ergonomics, treatment precision, and the ability to adapt to challenging lesions.¹
First-generation IVL systems: Requires the operator to press and hold a button on the reusable connector cable — a “continual hold” mechanism that demands constant engagement. This can be fatiguing during longer treatments and distracting during complex procedures. The user interface provides basic feedback, limited to pulse count and battery status.
Other laser IVL systems: Offers selective emitter control, allowing operators to activate fixed emitters individually and direct energy more deliberately toward a specific area of calcification. While procedural feedback is improved, interface complexity may introduce a steeper learning curve or potential for information overload.
FastWave Artero™: Designed for one-click, hands-free therapy activation. A single press of a button initiates the full cycle of 30 pulses, freeing the operator to focus on imaging, positioning, and overall case management. The console provides relevant, real-time feedback, including remaining pulse count.
FastWave Sola™: Combines the same one-click therapy activation of Artero™ with translational control of the emitter. With a single click, the physician can intuitively control therapy delivery via the catheter handle by translating the energy source along the length of the balloon, effectively directing energy where needed. The interface is also designed to provide proactive procedural feedback.
How Does Therapy Activation and Feedback Influence Procedural Control?
The interaction between the physician and the IVL system during therapy delivery is a critical determinant of usability. The method of activation, the quality of feedback from the user interface, and the degree of real-time control afforded to the operator directly influence procedural ergonomics, treatment precision, and the ability to adapt to challenging lesions.¹
First-generation IVL systems: Requires the operator to press and hold a button on the reusable connector cable — a “continual hold” mechanism that demands constant engagement. This can be fatiguing during longer treatments and distracting during complex procedures. The user interface provides basic feedback, limited to pulse count and battery status.
Other laser IVL systems: Offers selective emitter control, allowing operators to activate fixed emitters individually and direct energy more deliberately toward a specific area of calcification. While procedural feedback is improved, interface complexity may introduce a steeper learning curve or potential for information overload.
FastWave Artero™: Designed for one-click, hands-free therapy activation. A single press of a button initiates the full cycle of 30 pulses, freeing the operator to focus on imaging, positioning, and overall case management. The console provides relevant, real-time feedback, including remaining pulse count.
FastWave Sola™: Combines the same one-click therapy activation of Artero™ with translational control of the emitter. With a single click, the physician can intuitively control therapy delivery via the catheter handle by translating the energy source along the length of the balloon, effectively directing energy where needed. The interface is also designed to provide proactive procedural feedback.
Artero™’s generator delivers one-click, hands-free activation with real-time feedback — so operators can focus on the case, not the console.
Why it matters: Therapy activation, control, and feedback systems directly shape procedural efficiency and physician confidence. Systems that demand constant manual engagement or provide overwhelming interface complexity increase cognitive load and procedural friction. In contrast, platforms that offer intuitive activation, precise control, and clear, real-time feedback reduce operator burden and enable physicians to focus on therapy delivery rather than device management — ultimately supporting better treatment outcomes across diverse lesion types and procedural complexities.
Why it matters: Therapy activation, control, and feedback systems directly shape procedural efficiency and physician confidence. Systems that demand constant manual engagement or provide overwhelming interface complexity increase cognitive load and procedural friction. In contrast, platforms that offer intuitive activation, precise control, and clear, real-time feedback reduce operator burden and enable physicians to focus on therapy delivery rather than device management — ultimately supporting better treatment outcomes across diverse lesion types and procedural complexities.
Why it matters: Therapy activation, control, and feedback systems directly shape procedural efficiency and physician confidence. Systems that demand constant manual engagement or provide overwhelming interface complexity increase cognitive load and procedural friction. In contrast, platforms that offer intuitive activation, precise control, and clear, real-time feedback reduce operator burden and enable physicians to focus on therapy delivery rather than device management — ultimately supporting better treatment outcomes across diverse lesion types and procedural complexities.
Why it matters: Therapy activation, control, and feedback systems directly shape procedural efficiency and physician confidence. Systems that demand constant manual engagement or provide overwhelming interface complexity increase cognitive load and procedural friction. In contrast, platforms that offer intuitive activation, precise control, and clear, real-time feedback reduce operator burden and enable physicians to focus on therapy delivery rather than device management — ultimately supporting better treatment outcomes across diverse lesion types and procedural complexities.
How Does Catheter-to-Console Connection Affect IVL Setup and Sterility?
The process of connecting the single-use catheter to the reusable generator is a critical touchpoint in every IVL case. The connection design directly influences setup time, sterile field management complexity, and the potential for logistical issues that can disrupt workflow.
First-generation IVL system: Requires a reusable connector cable, also called a "dongle," to link the catheter to the generator. Because the dongle itself is not sterile, it must be carefully inserted into a sterile sleeve before it can be brought into the sterile field. This multi-step process adds setup time, increases contamination risk, and creates logistical challenges — dongles can be misplaced, accidentally discarded with the sleeve, or even become a supply chain bottleneck if replacements aren’t immediately available.²
Other laser IVL system: Features integrated catheter cabling, which connects directly to its console and reduces the need for intermediate components.
FastWave Artero™: Eliminates the need for a reusable dongle. The platform was designed so that the catheter connects directly to the console, creating a single-step, plug-and-play connection that simplifies setup and removes the logistical burden of managing a separate, reusable component.
FastWave Sola™: Features a direct catheter-to-generator connection. This design choice eliminates the need for a dongle, streamlining the setup process and removing the risk of lost or contaminated components that can disrupt the procedural workflow.
How Does Catheter-to-Console Connection Affect IVL Setup and Sterility?
The process of connecting the single-use catheter to the reusable generator is a critical touchpoint in every IVL case. The connection design directly influences setup time, sterile field management complexity, and the potential for logistical issues that can disrupt workflow.
First-generation IVL system: Requires a reusable connector cable, also called a "dongle," to link the catheter to the generator. Because the dongle itself is not sterile, it must be carefully inserted into a sterile sleeve before it can be brought into the sterile field. This multi-step process adds setup time, increases contamination risk, and creates logistical challenges — dongles can be misplaced, accidentally discarded with the sleeve, or even become a supply chain bottleneck if replacements aren’t immediately available.²
Other laser IVL system: Features integrated catheter cabling, which connects directly to its console and reduces the need for intermediate components.
FastWave Artero™: Eliminates the need for a reusable dongle. The platform was designed so that the catheter connects directly to the console, creating a single-step, plug-and-play connection that simplifies setup and removes the logistical burden of managing a separate, reusable component.
FastWave Sola™: Features a direct catheter-to-generator connection. This design choice eliminates the need for a dongle, streamlining the setup process and removing the risk of lost or contaminated components that can disrupt the procedural workflow.
How Does Catheter-to-Console Connection Affect IVL Setup and Sterility?
The process of connecting the single-use catheter to the reusable generator is a critical touchpoint in every IVL case. The connection design directly influences setup time, sterile field management complexity, and the potential for logistical issues that can disrupt workflow.
First-generation IVL system: Requires a reusable connector cable, also called a "dongle," to link the catheter to the generator. Because the dongle itself is not sterile, it must be carefully inserted into a sterile sleeve before it can be brought into the sterile field. This multi-step process adds setup time, increases contamination risk, and creates logistical challenges — dongles can be misplaced, accidentally discarded with the sleeve, or even become a supply chain bottleneck if replacements aren’t immediately available.²
Other laser IVL system: Features integrated catheter cabling, which connects directly to its console and reduces the need for intermediate components.
FastWave Artero™: Eliminates the need for a reusable dongle. The platform was designed so that the catheter connects directly to the console, creating a single-step, plug-and-play connection that simplifies setup and removes the logistical burden of managing a separate, reusable component.
FastWave Sola™: Features a direct catheter-to-generator connection. This design choice eliminates the need for a dongle, streamlining the setup process and removing the risk of lost or contaminated components that can disrupt the procedural workflow.
How Does Catheter-to-Console Connection Affect IVL Setup and Sterility?
The process of connecting the single-use catheter to the reusable generator is a critical touchpoint in every IVL case. The connection design directly influences setup time, sterile field management complexity, and the potential for logistical issues that can disrupt workflow.
First-generation IVL system: Requires a reusable connector cable, also called a "dongle," to link the catheter to the generator. Because the dongle itself is not sterile, it must be carefully inserted into a sterile sleeve before it can be brought into the sterile field. This multi-step process adds setup time, increases contamination risk, and creates logistical challenges — dongles can be misplaced, accidentally discarded with the sleeve, or even become a supply chain bottleneck if replacements aren’t immediately available.²
Other laser IVL system: Features integrated catheter cabling, which connects directly to its console and reduces the need for intermediate components.
FastWave Artero™: Eliminates the need for a reusable dongle. The platform was designed so that the catheter connects directly to the console, creating a single-step, plug-and-play connection that simplifies setup and removes the logistical burden of managing a separate, reusable component.
FastWave Sola™: Features a direct catheter-to-generator connection. This design choice eliminates the need for a dongle, streamlining the setup process and removing the risk of lost or contaminated components that can disrupt the procedural workflow.
Artero™’s direct catheter-to-generator connection removes the need for a reusable dongle — simplifying workflow, reducing setup time, and minimizing sterile field complexity.
Why it matters: Every additional component or setup step increases procedural friction, sterile field complexity, and the risk of delays. Multi-component systems place additional burden on clinical staff, who must locate, prepare, and manage reusable dongles while maintaining sterility protocols. Systems with direct, integrated connections simplify workflow, create more reliable set up processes, and ensure the system is ready when needed — without introducing unnecessary procedural steps or contamination risks.
Why it matters: Every additional component or setup step increases procedural friction, sterile field complexity, and the risk of delays. Multi-component systems place additional burden on clinical staff, who must locate, prepare, and manage reusable dongles while maintaining sterility protocols. Systems with direct, integrated connections simplify workflow, create more reliable set up processes, and ensure the system is ready when needed — without introducing unnecessary procedural steps or contamination risks.
Why it matters: Every additional component or setup step increases procedural friction, sterile field complexity, and the risk of delays. Multi-component systems place additional burden on clinical staff, who must locate, prepare, and manage reusable dongles while maintaining sterility protocols. Systems with direct, integrated connections simplify workflow, create more reliable set up processes, and ensure the system is ready when needed — without introducing unnecessary procedural steps or contamination risks.
Why it matters: Every additional component or setup step increases procedural friction, sterile field complexity, and the risk of delays. Multi-component systems place additional burden on clinical staff, who must locate, prepare, and manage reusable dongles while maintaining sterility protocols. Systems with direct, integrated connections simplify workflow, create more reliable set up processes, and ensure the system is ready when needed — without introducing unnecessary procedural steps or contamination risks.
The Bottom Line on IVL Usability
Usability is not a secondary feature or marketing point — it is a fundamental determinant of how effectively advanced medical technology integrates into clinical practice.
First-generation IVL systems often create unintentional workflow friction, with setup delays caused by dongle preparation, procedural interruptions due to battery recharging requirements, operator fatigue from continuous therapy activation, and limited feedback that reduces procedural confidence. Other laser-based IVL systems improve certain aspects like feedback quality, but present with their own usability challenges, including bulky consoles that disrupt procedural suite layouts and complex interfaces requiring additional operator training.³
FastWave's Artero™ and Sola™ platforms are engineered to integrate seamlessly into existing workflows by eliminating reusable components that cause setup complications, maintaining compact console footprints that support space efficiency, and delivering clear procedural feedback that enhances physician confidence without creating information overload.
As IVL technology advances, usability will remain a defining factor in determining which systems can consistently meet the growing demands for complexity, efficiency, and reliability in modern interventional practice.
The Bottom Line on IVL Usability
Usability is not a secondary feature or marketing point — it is a fundamental determinant of how effectively advanced medical technology integrates into clinical practice.
First-generation IVL systems often create unintentional workflow friction, with setup delays caused by dongle preparation, procedural interruptions due to battery recharging requirements, operator fatigue from continuous therapy activation, and limited feedback that reduces procedural confidence. Other laser-based IVL systems improve certain aspects like feedback quality, but present with their own usability challenges, including bulky consoles that disrupt procedural suite layouts and complex interfaces requiring additional operator training.³
FastWave's Artero™ and Sola™ platforms are engineered to integrate seamlessly into existing workflows by eliminating reusable components that cause setup complications, maintaining compact console footprints that support space efficiency, and delivering clear procedural feedback that enhances physician confidence without creating information overload.
As IVL technology advances, usability will remain a defining factor in determining which systems can consistently meet the growing demands for complexity, efficiency, and reliability in modern interventional practice.
The Bottom Line on IVL Usability
Usability is not a secondary feature or marketing point — it is a fundamental determinant of how effectively advanced medical technology integrates into clinical practice.
First-generation IVL systems often create unintentional workflow friction, with setup delays caused by dongle preparation, procedural interruptions due to battery recharging requirements, operator fatigue from continuous therapy activation, and limited feedback that reduces procedural confidence. Other laser-based IVL systems improve certain aspects like feedback quality, but present with their own usability challenges, including bulky consoles that disrupt procedural suite layouts and complex interfaces requiring additional operator training.³
FastWave's Artero™ and Sola™ platforms are engineered to integrate seamlessly into existing workflows by eliminating reusable components that cause setup complications, maintaining compact console footprints that support space efficiency, and delivering clear procedural feedback that enhances physician confidence without creating information overload.
As IVL technology advances, usability will remain a defining factor in determining which systems can consistently meet the growing demands for complexity, efficiency, and reliability in modern interventional practice.
The Bottom Line on IVL Usability
Usability is not a secondary feature or marketing point — it is a fundamental determinant of how effectively advanced medical technology integrates into clinical practice.
First-generation IVL systems often create unintentional workflow friction, with setup delays caused by dongle preparation, procedural interruptions due to battery recharging requirements, operator fatigue from continuous therapy activation, and limited feedback that reduces procedural confidence. Other laser-based IVL systems improve certain aspects like feedback quality, but present with their own usability challenges, including bulky consoles that disrupt procedural suite layouts and complex interfaces requiring additional operator training.³
FastWave's Artero™ and Sola™ platforms are engineered to integrate seamlessly into existing workflows by eliminating reusable components that cause setup complications, maintaining compact console footprints that support space efficiency, and delivering clear procedural feedback that enhances physician confidence without creating information overload.
As IVL technology advances, usability will remain a defining factor in determining which systems can consistently meet the growing demands for complexity, efficiency, and reliability in modern interventional practice.
Sources and References
Sources and References
Sources and References
Sources and References
