Intravascular Ultrasound as a Guiding Modality for Mechanical Atherectomy and Laser Ablation

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Abstract
One of the most compelling practical applications for intravascular ultrasound imaging is in enhancing the safety and efficacy of the second-generation catheter devices designed to ablate or remove plaque. Initial studies have shown that intravascular ultrasound is well suited to demonstrate the amount of atheroma present in a vessel, and the distribution within the vessel wall at any given point. Further clinical studies are required to determine whether more complete debulking of atheroma, guided by ultrasound imaging, has a favorable impact in reducing the rates of acute closure and restenosis following the procedure.