ABSTRACT
In recent years, many potential methods for determining the likelihood for disruption of a coronary atherosclerotic plaque have emerged. The promising diagnostic tools include imaging techniques that characterize plaque morphology and composition, as well as other techniques that focus on quantifying plaque inflammation to identify vulnerable plaques [1]. Imaging techniques are based on ultrasounds, light (infrared or X-rays), or magnetic resonance. Thermography and the biochemical markers can detect inflammation. This chapter will focus on the development of intravascular ultrasound based imaging techniques, optical coherence tomography and thermography in detecting vulnerable plaques.
VULNERABLE PLAQUE
