Intravascular ultrasound radiofrequency analysis of coronary atherosclerosis: an emerging technology for the assessment of vulnerable plaque.
Evaluation of atherosclerotic plaque composition and morphometry may yield insight into plaque biology and the mechanisms of plaque-associated thrombosis. Analysis of intravascular ultrasound radiofrequency (IVUS-RF) backscatter signal is one technology that provides in vivo assessment of both atherosclerotic plaque composition and morphometry. We summarize three different approaches to IVUS-RF and critique the studies using this technology. In addition, we address the potential application of IVUS-RF to assess vulnerable plaque.
Mehta
Sameer K
SK
Mid America Heart Institute, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Saint Luke's Hospital, 4401 Wornall Road, Kansas City, MI 64111, USA.
McCrary
Justin R
JR
Frutkin
Andrew D
AD
Dolla
William J S
WJ
Marso
Steven P
SP
D003324:Coronary Artery Disease / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D006801:Humans; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011846:Radio Waves; D012542:Scattering, Radiation; D014463:Ultrasonography; D054928:Validation Studies as Topic