Quantitative evaluation of vascular plaques based on IVUS-OCT-OCE intravascular system

In the last decade, there has been a growing interest in dual-modality imaging techniques that combine intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) with optical coherence tomography (OCT) for intravascular imaging. However, accurately quantifying the vulnerability of coronary atherosclerotic plaques solely through structural imaging methods remains challenging. Optical Coherence Elastography (OCE) technology, which assesses tissue elasticity by analyzing tissue displacement and strain distribution, has emerged as a promising approach. In recent years, the field of intravascular optical coherence elastography has shown significant progress, and its potential applications are becoming increasingly evident. In this study, we developed a comprehensive imaging system capable of IVUS-OCT-OCE tri-modality imaging for both phantom and biological tissues. Preliminary results indicate that the system exhibits high-quality imaging capabilities and offers precise identification of plaque tissue. This presents a novel approach for characterizing plaque tissue within blood vessels and holds promise for early diagnosis in coronary atherosclerosis.