Intracoronary Imaging for the Management of Vulnerable Plaques
Francesco Maria Animati1, Rocco Antonio Montone2, Francesco Fracassi2
1Dipartimento di Scienze Cardiovascolari e Pneumologiche, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy.
None:
Vulnerable coronary plaques are the primary substrate for acute coronary syndromes, representing a significant challenge in cardiovascular care. This review examines the pivotal role of intracoronary imaging, specifically intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and optical coherence tomography (OCT), in the detection and management of these high-risk lesions. We detail the technical principles of these modalities and their unique capabilities in characterizing plaque morphology, from identifying thin-cap fibroatheromas (TCFA) to differentiating mechanisms of plaque rupture and erosion. The article further synthesizes evidence on how imaging-guided strategies-ranging from intensive medical therapy to emerging interventional approaches like preventive stenting-can stabilize vulnerable plaques and improve patient outcomes. Finally, we explore future directions, including the integration of artificial intelligence and hybrid imaging technologies, which promise to refine risk stratification and personalize the treatment of coronary artery disease.
More Related Videos
10:28Interventional Diagnostic Procedure: A Practical Guide for the Assessment of Coronary Vascular Function
Published on: March 15, 2022
13:07Optical Coherence Tomography Based Biomechanical Fluid-Structure Interaction Analysis of Coronary Atherosclerosis Progression
Published on: January 15, 2022
Related Concept Videos
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System VI: Calcium -Scoring CT
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies
Coronary Artery Disease V: Interprofessional Care
Acute Coronary Syndrome IV: Interprofessional Care
Coronary Artery Disease IV: Preventive Measures
