An overview of intravascular ultrasound

Intravascular ultrasound is a new technique based on the use of high-frequency transducers mounted in or on flexible catheters which can be inserted into arteries or veins. Although this technique is extremely promising for the evaluation or guidance of intravascular interventions, this application has yet to be proven conclusively. Intravascular ultrasound is already established as a research technique, especially for the evaluation of details of lesion size, morphology, or the results of interventions. Catheters can be divided into two principles of operation, mechanical or electronic. The mechanical systems can be further subdivided according whether the core, rotating element is fixed relative to the outside sheath, or can be moved. Interpretation of images requires knowledge of the histology of the arterial wall, as well as of the physics of ultrasound at high frequencies. Studies are now underway to assess the contribution of intravascular ultrasound to prognosis and outcome in interventional procedures.