Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS)
Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS)
At Veins and Foot Clinic, we understand the importance of accurate diagnosis for optimal patient care. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is a minimally invasive imaging technique that uses sound waves to provide detailed pictures of the inside of blood vessels. This information can be crucial in diagnosing and treating various vascular conditions.
What is IVUS?
IVUS utilizes a thin catheter equipped with a miniature ultrasound transducer. This catheter is inserted into an artery or vein and navigated to the area of concern. The transducer emits high-frequency sound waves that bounce off the vessel wall and are captured by the device. This data is then used to create real-time, cross-sectional images of the blood vessel interior.
Advantages of IVUS:
Detailed visualization: IVUS offers a high-resolution view of the vessel wall, allowing for the detection of plaque buildup, blockages (stenosis), and other abnormalities that may not be visible with traditional angiography (X-ray imaging).
Precise measurements: IVUS provides accurate measurements of the blood vessel diameter and plaque burden, which aids in treatment planning and stent sizing during procedures like angioplasty.
Real-time guidance: IVUS images are displayed in real-time, enabling physicians to guide procedures with greater precision and assess treatment outcomes immediately.
Conditions evaluated by IVUS:
Coronary artery disease (CAD): IVUS is commonly used to assess coronary arteries for plaque buildup and narrowing, which can restrict blood flow to the heart and lead to heart attack.
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD): IVUS can help evaluate peripheral arteries in the legs and arms for blockages that can cause pain, claudication (leg cramps), and tissue death.
Vascular interventions: IVUS can be used during procedures like angioplasty and stent placement to ensure proper stent positioning and optimal vessel opening.
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While IVUS is a valuable diagnostic tool, it is important to note that it may not be suitable for everyone. Our team of vascular specialists at Veins and Foot Clinic will discuss your individual needs and determine if IVUS is the right diagnostic approach for you.
Conditions We Treat
- Varicose veins
- Superficial Venous Thrombosis Phlebitis
- Thread / spider veins
- Swollen leg
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- May turners syndrome
- Varicose veins in pregnancy
- Varicose veins in obese patients
- Restless leg syndrome
- Varicose veins of the testicles
- Recurrent Varicose Veins
- Hidden Varicose Veins
- Hemosiderin Brown Stains
- Lipo dermatosclerosis (LDS)
- Venous Eczema
- Leg Ulcers
- Vaginal and Vulval Varicose Veins
- Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS)
