Definition

Intravascular ultrasound is a test that uses sound waves to see inside the coronary arteries, the blood vessels that supply the heart.
Images:

Alternative Names

IVUS; Ultrasound - coronary artery; Endovascular ultrasound

Indications

IVUS may be used to:

  • View the aorta and structure of the artery walls (which can show plaque build up)
  • Identify which specific blood vessel is involved in aortic dissection
  • Determine where a stent should be placed
  • Discover how well angioplasty and stenting worked

Risks

There is a slight risk of complications associated with angioplasty and cardiac catheterization. However, the tests are very safe when performed by an experienced team. IVUS adds no additional risk.

Risks of angioplasty may include:

  • Hemorrhage (bleeding) in area where the catheter was inserted
  • Damage to a blood vessel
  • Complete blockage of blood flow in a certain area
  • Heart arrhythmias
  • Allergic reaction to any dye used during the test
  • Stroke

Risks of cardiac cathertization may include:

Expectations after surgery

After the test, the catheter is removed. A bandage is placed on the area. You will usually be asked to lie flat on your back for a few hours after the test to prevent bleeding.

If IVUS was done during cardiac catheterization, you will stay in the hospital for about 3 to 6 hours. If IVUS was done during angioplasty, you will stay in the hospital for 12 to 24 hours.

References

Grainger RG, Allison D, Adam A, Dixon AK. Grainger & Allison's Diagnostic Radiology: A Textbook of Medical Imaging. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2001:70.

Sipahi I. Intravascular Ultrasound in the Current Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Era. Cardiol Clin. 2006 May; 24(2); 163-173.

Rowe VL . Advances in vascular imaging. Surg Clin North Am. 01-OCT-2004; 84(5): 1189-202, v.

Review Date:8/15/2006
Reviewed By: Augusto Pichard, M.D., Clinical Professor of Medicine and Director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory, Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC.