20 May 2026

High definition IVUS-guided treatment strategies in calcified stenoses

Sponsored by Boston Scientific

Anchorperson: E. Barbato

Spokesperson: N. Gonzalo

Summary

Severely calcified coronary stenoses remain one of the most challenging subsets in contemporary PCI, requiring precise lesion assessment and tailored treatment strategies.

This EuroPCR 2026 session focuses on how high-definition intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is changing the way these lesions are approached in daily practice.

HD-IVUS enables detailed detection and characterisation of calcium, helping to define the most appropriate plaque modification strategy. It also provides immediate feedback after lesion preparation, supporting the choice between drug-coated balloon, drug-eluting stent or a hybrid approach based on procedural results.

A key emphasis is placed on optimisation throughout the procedure: from accurate vessel sizing and device selection to final treatment decisions, ensuring a more structured and physiology-informed approach to complex calcified disease.

Learning Objectives

To learn how to recognise the value of high definition IVUS in assessing calcified lesions and guiding lesion preparation
To discuss with peers when to use DCB or DES or both in a hybrid approach in heavily calcified lesions
To understand how to implement IVUS-guided drug-eluting therapies to optimise short- and long-term patient outcomes

Speaker

E. Barbato

Welcome and session objectives

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