Feasibility of two-dimensional color imaging in coronary vessels using a single-mode fiber catheter

This project seeks to combine the advantages of optical coherence tomography (OCT) and two-dimensional color imaging. The addition of color to OCT will allow cardiologists to have a more real-life image of the interior surface of the artery along with the high-resolution radial penetration of OCT. As of yet, no coronary color imaging has been done through a single fiber with, or independent of, an OCT system. It is hoped that using a single-mode fiber will help to alleviate the mechanical and safety limitations of angioscopy as well as adding to the information received from OCT. This new imaging mode, consisting of visible light imaging through a single-mode optical fiber, may allow not only for better detection, but also permit in vivo observation of lipid plaque histology and its role in causing myocardial infarctions.