This is the fourth patent that Minneapolis-based FastWave Medical has secured from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office this year. The company announced previous patents in May and April.

IVL is a hot space, with Johnson & Johnson completing its $13.1 billion acquisition of Shockwave Medical in May. FastWave Medical describes its IVL technology as next-generation, with durable and fast energy delivery and an enhanced sonic output to navigate complex arterial anatomy through a high-performing catheter.

“IVL has become a go-to tool for calcium modification and vessel preparation in large part due to its ease of use,” Dr. Raj Dave, president of Cardiovascular Experts of Pennsylvania in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, said in a news release.