intravascular ultrasound
Also written as: IVUS — intravascular ultrasound
Invasive imaging technique using catheter-mounted ultrasound transducer to visualize arterial walls from within the vessel lumen.
Full Definition
Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is an advanced invasive imaging modality that employs a miniaturized ultrasound transducer mounted on a catheter tip to provide high-resolution cross-sectional images of arterial walls from within the vessel lumen. This technique offers superior visualization of plaque composition, vessel wall morphology, and precise luminal dimensions compared to conventional angiography. IVUS is particularly valuable for assessing plaque burden, guiding interventional procedures, and evaluating stent deployment. The technology provides real-time imaging during catheter-based interventions and can detect vulnerable plaque characteristics that may not be apparent on surface imaging modalities.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as IVUS in clinical documentation; distinguish from external ultrasound modalities.
In Context
- "Intravascular ultrasound confirmed complete stent apposition against the vessel wall." — Interventional procedure report
- "The intravascular ultrasound revealed eccentric plaque with a large lipid pool and thin fibrous cap." — Plaque characterization study