With the current-generation OCT catheter, it takes 3 seconds to obtain the images. It is a very fast procedure. It is very easy and simple to set up. It requires minimum training. It is very safe for the patient. It has no deleterious effect on the patient. There is no additional risk incurred by adding OCT to an invasive procedure.
Images are acquired during a single injection of contrast through a normal guiding catheter. The imaging is done in about 3 seconds, and the entire coronary artery is perfectly well imaged. A normal injection of contrast, 12-16 ccs, is usually enough. Analysis of the images is done frame by frame. With the aid of the software, a longitudinal display of the vessel is available, so side branches and different levels of plaque formation are visible, as well as stents.
