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Effect of temperature increase and freezing on intravascular elastography
J A Schaar1, C L de Korte, F Mastik
1Department of Experimental Echocardiography, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Thoraxcenter, The Netherlands. schaar@tch.fgg.eur.nl
Ultrasonics
|August 6, 2002
Summary
Freezing human arteries and measuring them at room temperature does not significantly alter intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) elastography results. This finding supports using frozen tissues and room temperature measurements for reliable plaque vulnerability assessments.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Research
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) elastography analyzes vessel wall strain to identify vulnerable plaque components.
- Current in vitro studies often use frozen specimens measured at room temperature for convenience.
- The impact of these practical conditions on elastic properties requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the influence of freezing and room temperature (23°C) measurements on IVUS elastography of human arteries.
- To determine if these conditions affect the assessment of plaque vulnerability.
Main Methods:
- Human coronary, carotid, and femoral arteries were measured fresh at 23°C and 37°C.
- Specimens were subsequently stored at -80°C for up to 24 hours and re-measured at 23°C.
- IVUS elastograms were generated from radiofrequency data using an EndoSonics 20 MHz catheter at 80 and 100 mmHg.
Main Results:
- Qualitative and quantitative analysis showed no significant influence of -80°C storage on elastograms.
- Measurements at room temperature (23°C) on fresh and frozen specimens yielded comparable results.
- Freezing and room temperature measurements did not significantly affect the elastic property information.
Conclusions:
- In vitro IVUS elastography can be reliably performed at room temperature using specimens stored at -80°C.
- These practical adjustments do not compromise the integrity of plaque vulnerability assessments.
- The study validates the feasibility of using convenient laboratory conditions for IVUS elastography research.