Intravascular Ultrasound Scan (IVUS)

Understanding Intravascular Ultrasound Scan

An Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) Scan is a catheter-based diagnostic procedure that provides real-time imaging of the inside of coronary arteries. It uses a transducer or probe to generate sound waves and produce images of blood vessels, helping to detect narrowing and blockages that can compromise blood flow.

Purpose and Benefits of Intravascular Ultrasound Scan

The primary purpose of an IVUS scan is to assess the degree of narrowing or thickening (stenosis) of an artery. It is typically used in preparation for, during, or to review the results of an angioplasty or arthrectomy, and in the placement of stents. The scan provides insight into the nature of the plaque and can reveal what has been referred to as "re-stenosis" (a recurrence of narrowing).

Conditions Detected by Intravascular Ultrasound Scan

The IVUS scan is particularly useful for detecting conditions related to heart disease, such as coronary artery disease. It can provide important information about the amount and type of plaque in the arteries, which can help determine if a patient is at risk for a heart attack.

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The cost of Intravascular Ultrasound Scan (IVUS) may be covered by private health insurance plans, depending on the specifics of the policy. Check with your insurance provider to understand what is covered.

Scan Procedure

The IVUS procedure involves the insertion of a catheter with a tiny ultrasonic transducer attached to one end. The catheter is advanced through an incision, typically in the groin, to reach the assessment area. The transducer generates high-frequency sound waves to provide images of the inside of the arteries.

Preparation for the Scan

There are no specific dietary restrictions or clothing guidelines for an IVUS scan. However, patients are advised to follow the instructions provided by their healthcare provider.

What to Expect on the Day

During the procedure, the catheter is held in place and the probe is slid backwards under steady, smooth, motorized control, sending and receiving ultrasound images along the way. The procedure is minimally invasive but does come with the risks associated with any invasive procedure.

After the Scan

After the catheter is removed, patients must lie flat for two to six hours. If a patient lives more than an hour's drive from the hospital, they may need to stay overnight. The results of the scan are typically available within a few days and will be communicated by the healthcare provider.

Alternative Imaging Options

Other imaging options include X-ray, MRI, and CT scans. The suitability of these alternatives is based on the patient's symptoms and the consultant's decision.

Additional Resources

For further information or support related to the IVUS scan, patients are advised to consult their healthcare provider or visit reputable health websites.

References

1. "Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS)" - Cedars-Sinai
2. https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/imaging-center/exams/vascular-ultrasound/ivus-intravascular-ultrasound.html
3. "Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) - Penn Medicine"
4. https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/find-a-program-or-service/heart-and-vascular/interventional-cardiology/testing-and-diagnosis/intravascular-ultrasound
5. "Intravascular Ultrasound" - RadiologyInfo.org
6. https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/ultrasound-intravascular
7. "Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS)" - Cleveland Clinic
8. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/17143-intravascular-ultrasound
9. "Recent Advances in Transducers for Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) Imaging" - MDPI
10. https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/21/10/3540

• https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/imaging-center/exams/vascular-ultrasound/ivus-intravascular-ultrasound.html
• https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/find-a-program-or-service/heart-and-vascular/interventional-cardiology/testing-and-diagnosis/intravascular-ultrasound
• https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/ultrasound-intravascular
• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/17143-intravascular-ultrasound
• https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/21/10/3540