Imaging in Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Intracoronary imaging (ICI) use during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has been shown to effectively improve cardiovascular outcomes, particularly for high-risk subgroups. However, data from randomized controlled trials are limited and the overall utilization rate of ICI remains variable between different countries and centers. Potential benefits of ICI include identification of appropriate lesions for PCI, improved characterization of lesions, and optimization of stent placement. Currently available modalities of ICI include intravascular ultrasound, optical coherence tomography and near infrared spectroscopy. Within this review, we summarize the contemporary evidence surrounding ICI and discuss its application in clinical practice.

Automated summary

The use of intracoronary imaging (ICI) during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has been proven to effectively improve cardiovascular outcomes, especially for high-risk subgroups. However, there is limited data from randomized controlled trials, and the overall utilization rate of ICI varies between different countries and centers. Potential benefits of ICI include accurate identification of lesions suitable for PCI, improved characterization of lesions, and optimization of stent placement. Available modalities of ICI include intravascular ultrasound, optical coherence tomography, and near infrared spectroscopy.