Intravascular Imaging

Intravascular imaging uses advanced catheter-based technology to look inside the coronary arteries with far greater detail than a standard angiogram. It helps cardiologists accurately assess blockages, plan the right treatment, and confirm precise stent placement, especially in complex or high-risk cases.

Key Intravascular Imaging Techniques We Offer

IVUS (Intravascular Ultrasound): Uses a tiny ultrasound probe inside the artery to create cross-sectional images that reveal plaque size, composition, and vessel dimensions.
OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): Uses light-based imaging to produce extremely high-resolution pictures of the artery wall, ideal for evaluating plaque detail and stent positioning.

Why Intravascular Imaging Matters

Provides a detailed view beyond what a standard angiogram shows.
Helps select the correct stent size and length.
Confirms complete and accurate stent placement.
Reduces the risk of future stent-related complications.
Improves outcomes in complex coronary interventions.

Who May Benefit From Intravascular Imaging

Patients with complex or heavily calcified blockages.
Patients undergoing left main or bifurcation PTCA.
Patients with a history of stent-related problems.
Patients where blockage severity is unclear on angiogram.
Patients requiring precise, image-guided angioplasty.

Benefits of Image-Guided Coronary Treatment

Greater accuracy in diagnosing artery blockages.
Improved long-term success of stenting procedures.
Lower risk of stent under-expansion or malapposition.
Better treatment planning for complex cases.
Enhanced safety during high-risk coronary procedures.

Book an Intravascular Imaging Consultation

Speak with our interventional cardiology team to understand how IVUS or OCT guided imaging can improve the accuracy and safety of your coronary procedure. Precise imaging leads to better long-term outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is IVUS and how is it used?

IVUS (Intravascular Ultrasound) uses a tiny ultrasound probe inside the coronary artery to create detailed cross-sectional images of the artery wall, helping assess plaque size and guide accurate stent placement.

What is OCT and how is it different from IVUS?

OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) uses light waves to create extremely high-resolution images of the artery, offering more detail than IVUS for evaluating plaque composition and stent positioning.

Why is intravascular imaging needed during angioplasty?

Intravascular imaging provides a detailed, real-time view inside the artery that a standard angiogram cannot show, helping the cardiologist choose the right stent size and confirm it is fully and correctly placed.

Is intravascular imaging safe?

Yes, IVUS and OCT are safe, minimally invasive imaging techniques performed using the same catheter access as angioplasty, adding valuable diagnostic information with minimal additional risk.

Who benefits most from IVUS or OCT guided procedures?

Patients with complex blockages, calcified arteries, left main disease, or previous stent problems benefit most from IVUS or OCT guidance, as it improves the precision and long-term success of the procedure.