Methodological considerations and approach to cross-technique comparisons using in vivo coronary plaque characterization based on intravascular ultrasound radiofrequency data analysis: insights from the Integrated Biomarker and Imaging Study (IBIS)

Int J Cardiovasc Intervent. 2005;7(1):52-8. doi: 10.1080/14628840410030559.

Abstract

Grey scale intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is a valuable clinical tool to assess the extent and severity of coronary atheroma. However, it cannot reliably identify plaques with a high-risk of future clinical events. Serial IVUS studies to assess the progression and/or regression of atherosclerotic plaques demonstrated only modest effects, of pharmacological intervention on plaque burden, even when clinical efficacy is documented. Spectral analysis of radiofrequency ultrasound data (IVUS-virtual histology (IVUS-VH), Volcano Therapeutics, Rancho Cordova, CA) has the potential to characterize accurately plaque composition. The Integrated Biomarker and Imaging Study (IBIS) evaluated both invasive and non-invasive imaging techniques along with the assessment of novel biomarkers to characterize sub-clinical atherosclerosis. IVUS-VH was not included at the start of the IBIS protocol. The purpose of this paper is to describe the methodology we used to obtain and analyse IVUS-VH images and the approach to cross-correlations with the other techniques.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers / analysis
  • Cardiac Catheterization
  • Coronary Angiography / methods
  • Coronary Artery Disease / diagnostic imaging*
  • Coronary Artery Disease / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted*
  • Male
  • Pilot Projects
  • Prospective Studies
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Ultrasonography, Doppler, Color
  • Ultrasonography, Interventional / methods*

Substances

  • Biomarkers