Intravascular Ultrasound

An intravascular ultrasound is an imaging test in which the coronary arteries that supply the heart are visualized using a small, ultrasound catheter that is introduced through an artery in the groin area and threaded up toward the heart. It is often performed as part of an angioplasty procedure to ensure that a stent has been placed correctly or to help determine the appropriate location for the stent. Physicians also employ intravascular ultrasound to evaluate the aorta and arterial walls, and to determine which blood vessel is involved in an aortic dissection. The test is helpful for showing the degree of plaque buildup in the arteries, thereby helping assess the risk of a heart attack.