First clinical experiences with a new angioscopic system for diagnosing peripheral vascular changes

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Medical Imaging
• Cardiology

Background:

• Conventional angiography offers a global view but relies on indirect contrast medium visualization.
• Direct evaluation of the vascular system is needed for precise anatomical and pathological assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a new micro-cardio-angioscopic system for direct vascular assessment.
• To determine the efficacy of angioscopy in controlling intervention outcomes and identifying vascular pathologies.

Main Methods:

• A new micro-cardio-angioscopic system (CCD camera, flexible optical probe, light source, balloon catheter) was utilized.
• 36 femoral artery desobliteration cases were examined using intermittent blood-flow blockage and NaCl rinsing.
• Angioscopy was performed before and after interventions to assess results.

Main Results:

• Angioscopy successfully controlled intervention outcomes in 88% of cases, visualizing intimal lips, thrombotic walls, and ruptures.
• Stenosis quantification was accurate in 88% of cases, with angioscopy findings differing from conventional angiography in 8 patients.
• In 14% of cases, angioscopy revealed the need for further thrombolytic therapy.

Conclusions:

• Micro-cardio-angioscopy enables direct, qualitative vascular diagnosis.
• It serves as a valuable addition to conventional angiography for assessing vascular interventions and pathologies.