Unlocking the Secrets of Acute Coronary Syndromes Using Intravascular Imaging: From Pathophysiology to Improving Outcomes

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) represents the most severe manifestation of coronary artery disease. Intravascular imaging, both intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and optical coherence tomography (OCT), have played crucial roles for the impressive reduction in mortality of ACS. Intravascular imaging is useful for the detection of atherosclerotic mechanism (plaque rupture, calcified nodules, or plaque erosions) and for the evaluation of nonatherosclerotic and nonobstructive types of ACS. In addition, IVUS and OCT play a crucial role in the optimization of the PCI. The aim of the current review is to present the role of intravascular imaging in identifying the mechanisms of ACS and its prognostic role in future events, to review the current guidelines suggesting intravascular imaging use in ACS, to summarize its role in PCI in patients with ACS, and to compare IVUS and OCT.