Role of Virtual Histology Intravascular Ultrasound in Detecting Subclinical High-Risk Plaques in Acute Coronary Syndrome

Abstract

Background:Vulnerable plaques that may not be angiographically noteworthy can rupture and cause acute coronary syndrome (ACS). High-risk characteristics can be identified and the composition of plaque can be thoroughly characterized using Virtual Histology Intravascular Ultrasound (VH-IVUS).
Objective: To evaluate the role of VH-IVUS in detecting subclinical high-risk plaques in ACS patients.
Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted over one year involving 50 ACS patients. VH-IVUS was used to assess plaque composition and identify features of vulnerability such as thin-cap fibroatheroma (TCFA).
Results: VH-IVUS detected high-risk plaques in 72% of patients, including non-culprit lesions. No significant correlation was observed between traditional risk factors and presence of high-risk plaques (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: VH-IVUS is a valuable tool in identifying subclinical high-risk plaques in ACS patients, potentially improving risk stratification beyond conventional methods.