IVUS
Pronunciation: EYE-vus
Also written as: IVUS — Intravascular ultrasound
Intravascular imaging technique using ultrasound to visualize vessel wall structure and luminal dimensions from within the artery.
Full Definition
Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is a catheter-based imaging modality that provides real-time, cross-sectional images of blood vessels from within the arterial lumen. The technique uses a miniaturized ultrasound transducer mounted on a catheter tip to generate high-resolution images of vessel wall architecture, plaque composition, and luminal geometry. IVUS can differentiate between different plaque types, measure vessel dimensions accurately, and assess the results of interventional procedures. The technology is particularly valuable for guidance during complex interventions, evaluation of ambiguous angiographic findings, and research into atherosclerotic disease progression. Modern systems provide both grayscale imaging and additional tissue characterization capabilities.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalized. Pronounced as a word rather than spelled out letter-by-letter.
In Context
- "IVUS imaging revealed significant plaque burden despite minimal angiographic stenosis." — Diagnostic catheterization report
- "The stent was optimally expanded as confirmed by IVUS measurements." — Post-intervention assessment