angioscope

An angioscope is a medical instrument used to visualize the inside of blood vessels. It is a type of endoscope, a flexible or rigid tube with a light source and a lens, designed specifically for examining the vascular system. Angioscopes typically feature a very small diameter, allowing them to be inserted into arteries or veins through a small incision or a catheter.

The primary purpose of an angioscope is to provide direct visual inspection of the vessel's lumen, the inner lining of the blood vessel. This allows physicians to identify abnormalities such as plaque buildup (atherosclerosis), blockages, narrowing (stenosis), or damage to the vessel wall. The instrument often incorporates a camera or a fiber optic system that transmits images to a monitor, enabling the medical team to see the interior of the vessel in real-time.

Angioscopy can be employed during various surgical procedures or diagnostic interventions. It can assist in assessing the effectiveness of treatments like angioplasty or stenting, helping to ensure that blockages have been successfully treated and that the vessel is open. In some cases, it may also be used to guide interventions or to obtain tissue samples from the vessel wall. The development of angioscopy has contributed to improved diagnosis and management of vascular diseases.