Name of the Procedure:

Intravascular Ultrasound (noncoronary vessel)

• Common names: IVUS, Intravascular Echocardiography
• Technical term: Intravascular Ultrasound for noncoronary vessel

Summary

Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) for noncoronary vessels is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure where an ultrasound probe is inserted into a blood vessel to produce detailed images of the vessel walls. This helps in the evaluation and treatment of vascular conditions.

Purpose

IVUS is used to assess noncoronary vessels (e.g., peripheral arteries, veins) for blockages, plaque buildup, and other abnormalities. It aids in diagnosing vascular conditions and guides therapeutic interventions like angioplasty or stent placement.

Indications

• Symptoms of peripheral artery disease (PAD) such as leg pain, numbness, or weakness
• Assessment of vein abnormalities, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or venous insufficiency
• Pre-procedural evaluation and planning for vascular surgeries or interventions
• Monitoring the effectiveness of previous vascular treatments

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for several hours prior to the procedure.
• Blood tests or imaging studies might be required beforehand.
• Medication adjustments, particularly anticoagulants, may be necessary based on doctor's advice.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned on an examination table.
2. An intravenous (IV) line is started for medication administration.
3. Local anesthesia is applied to the puncture site, usually in the groin or arm.
4. A catheter with an ultrasound probe at its tip is inserted into the blood vessel through a small incision.
5. The catheter is navigated to the target vessel under radiological supervision.
6. Ultrasound images are captured, providing real-time visualization of the vessel's interior.
7. The images are interpreted to diagnose issues or guide interventions.
8. After the evaluation or intervention, the catheter is removed, and the incision is closed.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

IVUS is usually performed in a hospital setting, particularly in an interventional radiology or cath lab.

Personnel

• Interventional Radiologist or Vascular Specialist
• Surgical Nurse
• Radiologic Technologist
• Anesthesiologist or Nurse Anesthetist (if sedation or anesthesia is required)

Risks and Complications

• Common: Bruising or bleeding at the insertion site, temporary vessel spasm.
• Rare: Infection, blood clots, vascular perforation, allergic reaction to contrast dye or anesthesia.

Benefits

• Provides detailed visualization of vascular structures.
• Enhances diagnosis accuracy compared to external ultrasound.
• Guides precise therapeutic interventions.
• Improves outcomes for vascular treatments.

Recovery

• Patients may need to lie flat for a couple of hours post-procedure to prevent bleeding at the insertion site.
• Instructions on wound care and activity limitation will be provided.
• Most patients can resume normal activities within a day or two.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor recovery or the effectiveness of any intervention performed.

Alternatives

• External Doppler Ultrasound: Non-invasive but less detailed.
• Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): No radiation exposure but not as precise for real-time intervention.
• Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA): Highly detailed but involves radiation exposure.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, patients might feel pressure or mild discomfort at the insertion site.
• Post-procedure, there may be soreness or bruising where the catheter was inserted.
• Pain management measures include local anesthesia and medications as needed.
• Most patients do not require strong pain relief and feel comfortable resuming normal activities soon after the procedure.