Three-dimensional Reconstruction of Intracoronary Ultrasound Images Rationale, Approaches, Problems, and Directions

Abstract Although intracoronary ultrasonography allows detailed tomographic imaging of the arterial wall, it fails to provide data on the structural architecture and longitudinal extent of arterial disease. This information is essential for decision making during therapeutic interventions. Three-di-mensional reconstruction techniques offer visualization of the complex longitudinal architecture of atherosclerotic plaques in composite display. Progress in computer hardware and soft-ware technology have shortened the reconstruction process and reduced operator interaction considerably, generating three-dimensional images with delineation of mural anatomy and pathology. The indications for intravascular ultrasonogra-phy will grow as the technique offers the unique capability of providing ultrasonic histology of the arterial wall, and the need for a three-dimensional display format for comprehensiv