Intravascular
Ultrasound (ICE)
Why is the doctor performing this test?
To view the inner lining of the coronary (heart) or peripheral
vascular (e.g. lower abdomen, kidneys, arms, legs) arteries.
Intravascular ultrasound allows detailed evaluation of plaque
(atherosclerosis)--its distribution, location, size, effect
on blood vessel diameter--that may be lining the inside of
your arteries. This information is used to evaluate cardiovascular
disease which assists in determining the next step in treatment
if needed (i.e. angioplasty or bypass surgery).
What is the test?
Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is an invasive diagnostic
test using a catheter with a sound transducer (or sound probe)
on the end. It is usually performed in conjunction with angiography/catheterization
and/or transcatheter interventions (e.g. PTCA, stent, etc.) The
catheter is threaded thru the artery in the groin to a specific
location of the arterial system to further diagnose the extent
of disease. High-frequency sound waves are used to create
precise images of the inner arterial walls. These images are
displayed in streaming video on a monitor. Once the diagnosis
is made, the catheter with the ultrasound tip attached is
carefully removed, and then pressure is applied over the groin
area to stop any bleeding.
Where is the test performed?
In the Cardiac Catheterization Lab.
How long does this test take?
Intravascular ultrasound usually takes thirty to sixty minutes.
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