Current and future developments in intracoronary optical coherence tomography imaging

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has become a key intracoronary imaging modality able to traverse some of the limitations of angiography and intravascular ultrasound. In vivo imaging with high resolution (around 15 micrometres) has given unique insights into not only atherosclerotic plaque, but also to the understanding of tissue responses underlying stent implantation. Novel developments with faster OCT pullback speeds will further simplify the procedural requirements and eventually eliminate the need for proximal vessel balloon occlusion during image acquisition. This report explores the current and future developments in OCT technology that will see this unique imaging modality become a key player in both the clinical and research arena for the interventional cardiologist.