Intracoronary imaging (ICI) use during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)
has been shown to effectively improve cardiovascular outcomes, particularly for
high-risk subgroups. However, data from randomized controlled trials are limited
and the overall utilization rate of ICI remains variable between different
countries and centers. Potential benefits of ICI include identification of
appropriate lesions for PCI, improved characterization of lesions, and
optimization of stent placement. Currently available modalities of ICI include
intravascular ultrasound, optical coherence tomography and near infrared
spectroscopy. Within this review, we summarize the contemporary evidence
surrounding ICI and discuss its application in clinical practice.