Combination of OCT and Raman spectroscopy for improved characterization of atherosclerotic plaque depositions

The biochemical composition of atherosclerotic plaques is closely related to plaque stability and, therefore, to the associated risk of plaque evolution and rupture. Combinations of current imaging modalities, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) with spectroscopic methods, therefore offer the possibility of concurrently obtaining morphological as well as chemical information. Raman spectroscopy is one of the most promising techniques that can be combined with intravascular imaging modalities. A microscopy setup merging both techniques has been applied to characterize plaque depositions of a human aorta affected by the disease. Calcified depositions were clearly identified and subsequently confirmed by histopathology.