Cardiac and Peripheral Vascular Center
2nd Flr., Podium Building, The Medical City, Ortigas Ave. Pasig City
Operating Hours: Mon – Sat / 8 AM to 5 PM; Sunday and Holidays / 8 AM – 5 PM (but no special procedure)
8-988-1000/8-988-7000 ext. 6299
PATIENT SERVICES
Intravascular Ultrasound Service in the Philippines
What is Intravascular Ultrasound?
Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is a medical imaging technique used to visualize the inside of blood vessels, primarily the coronary arteries, with the help of a tiny ultrasound probe attached to a catheter. This catheter is inserted into the blood vessel and navigated to the area of interest, such as a narrowed or blocked segment.
Once in place, the ultrasound probe emits high-frequency sound waves that bounce off the vessel walls and create detailed, real-time images. IVUS provides a cross-sectional view of the blood vessel, allowing healthcare professionals, particularly cardiologists, to assess the vessel's size, structure, and extent of plaque buildup or atherosclerosis.
Who Can Benefit from It?
Intravascular ultrasound is an invaluable tool for assessing cardiovascular health and diagnosing various conditions, such as coronary artery disease and peripheral vascular disease. It can also be used to determine the severity of narrowing or blockages in blood vessels caused by angina and atherosclerosis, as well as evaluate the effectiveness of various treatments, such as balloon angioplasty.
How Does the Procedure Work?
An intravascular ultrasound in the Philippines is typically performed in a hospital or outpatient center, with the patient lying down on an examination table. Once the area of interest is identified, a thin catheter with an ultrasound probe at its tip is inserted into the blood vessel. The catheter is then guided to the desired location and the ultrasound imaging begins.
During this process, sound waves are continuously emitted from the probe and bounced off the vessel walls. These waves create detailed, real-time images of the wall structure and can help to identify any areas of narrowing or blockage.
Once IVUS is completed, the catheter is removed, and a final report is generated that outlines the results. This report can then be used by physicians to make diagnoses and determine the appropriate treatment for the patient.
What Can You Expect After the Procedure?
The IVUS procedure is generally safe, and the patient can return to normal activities shortly afterward. However, the area that was examined may be sore for a few days after the procedure. Most patients do not experience any other complications or side effects from this type of imaging.
It's important to follow your doctor's instructions before and during the IVUS procedure, to minimize any risks associated with the process.
Consult a Doctor
It's important to note that although IVUS can be a valuable tool in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular conditions, it should only be performed under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Your doctor is the best person to recommend if IVUS is right for you, based on your individual health needs. Additionally, they can provide advice about any potential risks or side effects associated with the procedure.
It's also important to discuss any questions or concerns you may have about IVUS before the procedure so that your doctor can help address them.