Johnson & Johnson Launches Shockwave Javelin Peripheral IVL Catheter in Europe

Johnson & Johnson has launched its Shockwave Javelin Peripheral Intravascular Lithotripsy (IVL) Catheter in Europe, introducing a new technology to treat difficult-to-cross calcified lesions in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD).

The Javelin device is part of a first-of-its-kind Forward IVL platform that places a single lithotripsy emitter directly behind the catheter tip. 

This design allows clinicians to deliver ultrasonic pressure waves closer to the lesion than balloon-based systems, aiming to improve outcomes in complex, narrowed vessels.

PAD is a widespread condition affecting more than 230 million people worldwide and around 15 million in Europe. In its most severe form – chronic limb-threatening ischaemia (CLTI) – PAD carries a high risk of amputation and mortality, making effective treatment essential.

Shockwave Javelin has a 150-centimetre working length and can deliver up to 120 ultrasonic shockwaves to modify calcified tissue. 

The system is intended for use in extremely narrowed or occluded vessels where a guidewire can pass but conventional devices cannot. 

Clinical results from the FORWARD PAD IDE trial showed that the catheter has a comparable safety and efficacy profile to existing balloon-based IVL systems.

With the addition of Javelin to its existing Shockwave IVL catheters – including E8, L6 and M5+ – Johnson & Johnson now offers one of the most comprehensive IVL portfolios for the treatment of calcified lesions above and below the knee.