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Updated: Aug 7, 2026
13:07
Optical Coherence Tomography Based Biomechanical Fluid-Structure Interaction Analysis of Coronary Atherosclerosis Progression
Published on: January 15, 2022
Lipid-rich plaque masquerading as a coronary thrombus
Shereif H Rezkalla1, David R Holmes
1Department of Cardiology, Marshfield Clinic, Marshfield, WI 54449, USA. rezkalla.shereif@marshfieldclinic.org
Clinical Medicine & Research
|July 1, 2006
Summary
A lipid-rich plaque caused a coronary artery blockage, leading to chest pressure. Intravascular ultrasound guided stent placement, resolving symptoms and improving coronary artery evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Biology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide.
- Exertional chest pressure can indicate significant coronary artery stenosis.
- Accurate plaque characterization is crucial for effective treatment strategies.
Observation:
- A 43-year-old female patient presented with exertional chest pressure.
- Right coronary angiography revealed a distinct filling defect.
- Intravascular ultrasound identified an 80% stenotic plaque with a substantial lipid pool.
Findings:
- Lipid-rich plaques can manifest as angiographic filling defects.
- Intravascular ultrasound provides detailed plaque morphology, including lipid content.
- Successful stent implantation resolved the patient's angina.
Implications:
- Intravascular ultrasound is a valuable tool for comprehensive coronary artery assessment.
- Understanding plaque composition, particularly lipid content, is vital for managing CAD.
- This case highlights the efficacy of interventional treatment for obstructive lipid-rich plaques.
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