What is VH IVUS?
Previously, assessment of atherosclerotic disease was limited to 2D views of symptom-causing narrowing of the coronary arteries by way of contrast agent-enhanced X-Ray imaging. More recently, grayscale IVUS allowed for quantification of atherosclerotic plaque build-up, in addition to providing precise measurements of vessel anatomy to guide optimal angioplasty or stent-based treatment.
Volcano's VH IVUS technology uses advanced spectral analysis techniques to allow simplified interpretation of ultrasound images and provide detailed information on the composition of each patient's atherosclerotic plaques. The colorized VH images show four plaque component types: fibrous, fibro-fatty, dense calcium, and necrotic core. VH IVUS images are created using Volcano's imaging systems along with the Eagle Eye® Gold IVUS imaging catheter.
Images are displayed live, in the cath lab for easy review by the interventional cardiologist and his or her staff while the patient remains on the table. No changes to standard clinical practice are required to employ VH IVUS. This novel technology provides automated measurement tools to simplify image interpretation and employs a pre-determined color key to display plaque composition at a specific point in the artery or across a region of interest.