Rationale and use of near-infrared spectroscopy for detection of lipid-rich and vulnerable plaques

Abstract

NIR spectroscopy is theoretically well suited for detection of lipid-rich plaque and possibly of vulnerable plaque in the coronary arterial wall. Advances in lasers and fiber optics have resulted in development of a catheter-based system that can image through blood without the need for flushing or tissue apposition under cardiac motion and scan entire arteries within seconds. Although preliminary results are promising, a multicenter clinical study is under way to demonstrate the efficacy of an existing NIR spectroscopy system. Detection of coronary lipid-rich plaque may have clinical applicability but is undoubtedly the first step toward detection of vulnerable plaques. Further refinement of chemometric algorithms and use of molecular imaging targets may enhance the ability of this technique to assess for other markers of vulnerability, such as plaque inflammation and hemorrhage.