The use of optical coherence tomography in acute coronary syndrome

ABSTRACT

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an intracoronary imaging modality which utilizes near-infrared light to provide high-resolution cross-sectional in-vivo images of the coronary artery. OCT imaging technique enables detailed evaluation of plaque morphology in patients with acute coronary syndrome and helps to understand the underlying mechanisms including plaque rupture, plaque erosion, and calcified nodule. It is useful to optimize percutaneous coronary intervention, and evaluate vascular response to coronary intervention and pharmacological therapy. Advances in intracoronary OCT and further research on clinical applications have the potential to contribute to a better prognosis in acute coronary syndrome.

KEYWORDS:

• Aacute coronary syndrome
• optical coherence tomography
• vulnerable plaque
• plaque rupture
• plaque erosion
• thin-cap fibroatheroma
• percutaneous coronary intervention

Financial and competing interests disclosure

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.