Plaque Characterization With Optical Coherence Tomography

Plaque Characterization With Optical Coherence Tomography Debra Stamper, Neil Weissman, Mark Brezinski The identification of unstable plaque is central in risk-stratifying patients for acute coronary events. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a recently introduced imaging modality that has shown considerable promise for the identification of high-risk plaques. Advantages of OCT include its high resolution (4 to 20 μm), high data acquisition rate, small and inexpensive guidewires/catheters, and ability to be combined with adjuvant optical techniques. This article summarizes the current state of intravascular OCT imaging, focusing on potential markers of instability and current limitations. The identification of unstable plaque is central in risk-stratifying patients for acute coronary events. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a recently introduced imaging modality that has shown considerable promise for the identification of high-risk plaques. Advantages of OCT include its high resolution (4 to 20 μm), high data acquisition rate, small and inexpensive guidewires/catheters, and ability to be combined with adjuvant optical techniques. This article summarizes the current state of intravascular OCT imaging, focusing on potential markers of instability and current limitations.