Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)
Intravascular ultrasound examination (IVUS) is a method of ultrasound examination when an ultrasound probe is introduced into the lumen of a blood vessel.
Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is an innovative method of ultrasound examination of the blood vessel lumen. It visualizes the detailed anatomy of the vessel lumen and wall with the assessment of the diameter of stenosis, the length of the lesion, and the morphology of the atherosclerotic plaque. IVUS allows doctors to choose the most optimal method of treatment. This is not a routine method; therefore, it is used only in difficult diagnostic situations when it is difficult to assess in detail the morphology of blood vessels supplying the heart based on angiographic data.
Do I need to undergo IVUS?
After the coronary angiography, our Center’s Heart Team may recommend you to undergo this procedure. What is it for? Intravascular ultrasound examination of the coronary arteries (vessels that supply blood to the heart) provides important additional information and is sometimes decisive in determining further treatment tactics. Data obtained only with the help of angiography is the result of research in 2D. Stenting using IVUS significantly reduces the number of sudden coronary deaths and the need for subsequent revascularization due to stent restenosis.
How is IVUS performed?
As a rule, this kind of examination is conducted before stenting of the coronary arteries of increased complexity. A catheter with an ultrasound sensor at the end passes through the vessel generating images that are recorded in the computer memory and analyzed by an interventional cardiologist. Based on the obtained results, the doctor chooses the most optimal method of treatment (in particular, for the ideal implantation of the coronary stent). During the entire procedure, the patient is lying on their back, conscious and able to talk to the medical staff. Our doctors often ask how the patient feels and ask to let them know if any discomfort is felt. The procedure usually lasts about 40-60 minutes. However, each heart is unique and time can vary.
How to prepare for undergoing IVUS?
Before the procedure, you will be examined by a cardiologist.
The doctor conducts
- electrocardiography (ECG),
- ultrasound examination of the heart (ECHO of the heart),
- laboratory tests (to determine the level of creatinine, urea, and other indicators if necessary).
Before undergoing IVUS
- do not eat for two hours before the procedure,
- take all the medicines that you usually take.
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Часті питання
- You can wear whatever you want when going to the hospital. During the procedure, you
- will be dressed in a hospital gown.
- Leave your valuables at home.
- One day before the arranged date, your doctor or nurse will tell you what you can and сan eat or drink before the procedure.
- Ask your doctor what medications you should take on the day of the procedure.
- Tell your doctor and/or nurses if you are allergic to anything.
- injected during the procedure.
- The procedure is performed in the X-ray operating room. This room is cool and dimly lit.
- You will lie on a special table above which you will see a large camera and several
- monitors.
- When the contrast medium is injected, you may feel heat or notice redness for a few
- seconds. This is normal – these sensations will quickly disappear.
- Catheters and an introducer are removed from the blood vessel. The doctor will press
- the puncture site with a finger and apply a compression bandage.
- The nurse will check your bandage regularly to prevent bleeding.
- After a puncture in the leg, you need to lie in bed for several hours.
- The puncture site may be sensitive.
- You will need to drink plenty of fluid to clear the contrast material from your body.
