Ground-breaking cardiology technology in Galway

The new technology, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), is an established medical imaging technique, and is used to collect images from the inside of the coronary arteries in order to detect vulnerable fat-rich blockages.

Dr. Faisal Sharif, Consultant Cardiologist, University Hospital Galway, says; “OCT is a novel light-based intra-coronary imaging method that provides superior imaging of the blood vessel wall. With the use of this technology, the coronary vessel surface and plaque can be visualized in great detail. The key application of this technology is in the area of coronary intervention (before, during and after coronary stenting). This technology is also essential for evaluation of newly-developed stents and, therefore, its procurement has equipped the Galway catheterization laboratory for future stent-based clinical trials.”

OCT is a light-based new generation intra-coronary imaging method using fiber optic technology to assess coronary stent implantation and vessel healing following stenting. The images achieved with advanced fiber optic OCT imaging systems have far superior resolution in comparison with the Intra-vascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging system. This technology will allow better outcome during stent placement, which will translate to better long term results for patients who are undergoing coronary artery stenting.

Dr. Sharif adds; “We have been able to introduce the OCT technology due to the willingness of the Cardiology team at UHG. The Cardiology department is very proactive and all the members of this Department are very keen to adapt new techniques and technologies with the ultimate goal of improving the quality of lives of our patients.”

The Consultant Cardiologist acknowledged that these are challenging times, but stated that the only way forward is through innovation and fostering of research and development, and he thanked the hospital staff and management for their full support in the introduction of this new technology.

“New technologies like these are essential for future research and will allow participation in national and international clinical trials. Our aim is to provide a state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization facility to support large multi-nationals, local indigenous and SMEs within the Galway region and also at national level,” commented Dr. Sharif.