Progress in intravascular real-time cross-sectional ultrasonic imaging at the Thoraxcenter

Since the introduction by Grüntzig et al. (1) of nonoperative treatment of coronary artery stenosis (PTCA) significant progress has been made in methods for the treatment of arterial atherosclerotic disease. Currently many recanalization methods are being developed to reopen obstructed arteries during catheterization. New methods currently being studied include a rotating abrasive tip as suggested by Ritchie et al. (2), an atherectomy catheter tip method by Simpson et al. (3) and, for instance, a hot tip method as described by Sanborn et al. (4). In addition, direct laser application is also being considered for treating arterial obstruction (5, 6).