OCT-guided Coronary Angioplasty is an advanced minimally invasive procedure used to open clogged or narrowed coronary arteries. OCT, or Optical Coherence Tomography, provides high-resolution images of the inside of the arteries. This imaging technique allows cardiologists to precisely visualize the plaque and artery walls, guiding the angioplasty procedure for better outcomes.

When and why do people go for OCT-guided Coronary Angioplasty?

People undergo OCT-guided Coronary Angioplasty when they have significant coronary artery disease (CAD) that causes symptoms such as chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or other signs of reduced blood flow to the heart. This procedure is often recommended for:

• Severe Arterial Blockages: When non-invasive treatments like medication and lifestyle changes are insufficient.
• Acute Coronary Syndromes: In cases of heart attacks or unstable angina.
• Precise Stent Placement: To ensure accurate positioning and deployment of stents, reducing the risk of restenosis (re-narrowing of the artery).

What makes OCT-guided Coronary Angioplasty different from other treatment options?

OCT-guided Coronary Angioplasty differs from traditional angioplasty and other imaging-guided procedures in several ways:

• High-Resolution Imaging: OCT provides extremely detailed images of the artery walls and plaque composition, which is superior to traditional angiography.
• Enhanced Precision: The high-quality images help in the accurate assessment of plaque characteristics and stent placement, improving the procedure's success rate.
• Better Outcomes: Studies have shown that OCT-guided angioplasty can lead to better clinical outcomes, with lower rates of complications like stent thrombosis and restenosis.
• Reduced Need for Additional Procedures: The precision of OCT can reduce the need for repeat interventions, as it helps in thorough and accurate treatment planning and execution.