First-in-region SEISMIQ™ procedure offers new hope for patients facing amputation risk
Erie, Pa. (June 4, 2026) — In a groundbreaking medical achievement, LECOM Health Interventional Cardiologist Matthew C. Becker, M.D., today successfully performed the first SEISMIQ™ Intravascular Lithotripsy (IVL) system procedure in Western Pennsylvania, marking a revolutionary advancement in treating Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD).
The cutting-edge SEISMIQ procedure addresses one of cardiology’s most challenging problems: calcified arterial blockages that resist traditional treatment methods. Unlike typical cholesterol-based plaque, PAD blockages become “rock hard” with calcium deposits, rendering standard balloons and stents ineffective.
“This is a paradigm shift in how we approach calcified arterial disease,” said Dr. Becker, Chairman of the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine and Director of Cardiac Catheterization Laboratories at LECOM Health. “We’re literally fracturing calcium deposits with precision ultrasonic energy, then reshaping the artery with targeted balloon dilation.”
The SEISMIQ system features multiple emitters positioned along a specialized balloon that deliver precisely targeted ultrasonic pulses to fracture calcium deposits. This next-generation technology provides:
- 360-degree coverage for comprehensive treatment of eccentric and nodular calcium
- Enhanced deliverability to reach previously inaccessible lesions
- Superior operator control for targeted treatment of specific arterial disease segments
- Refined precision specifically designed for leg artery disease
PAD affects millions of Americans and historically leads to devastating outcomes including amputations, chronic wounds, and repeated surgeries. The condition is particularly severe below the knee and among smokers, where calcific disease is most prevalent.
“This technology offers new hope for patients who previously faced limited treatment options and high amputation risk,” said Dr. Becker. “The precision and effectiveness of SEISMIQ represents a major leap forward in preserving limbs and improving quality of life.”
Dr. Becker performed the procedure at LECOM Medical Center’s new cardiac catheterization laboratory, demonstrating LECOM Health’s commitment to bringing cutting-edge cardiovascular care to the community.
For more information about SEISMIQ, visit https://shorturl.at/C00FW.
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For More Information:
Melissa J. Dixon
LECOM Health Communications and Marketing
814-462-5093, md****@*********th.org