In-vivo validation of fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIm) of coronary arteries in swine

We report a scanning imaging system that enables high speed multispectral fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIm) of coronary arteries. This system combines a custom low profile (3 Fr) imaging catheter using a 200 mu m core side viewing UV-grade silica fiber optic, an acquisition system able to measure fluorescence decays over four spectral bands at 20 kHz and a fast data analysis and display module. In vivo use of the system has been optimized, with particular emphasis on clearing blood from the optical pathway. A short acquisition time (5 seconds for a 20 mm long coronary segment) enabled data acquisition during a bolus saline solution injection through the 7 Fr catheter guide. The injection parameters were precisely controlled using a power injector and optimized to provide good image quality while limiting the bolus injection duration and volume (12 cc/s, 80 cc total volume). The ability of the system to acquire data in vivo was validated in healthy swine by imaging different sections of the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary. A stent coated with fluorescent markers was placed in the LAD and imaged, demonstrating the ability of the system to discriminate in vivo different fluorescent features and structures from the vessel background fluorescence using spectral and lifetime information. Intensity en face images over the four bands of the instrument were available within seconds whereas lifetime images were computed in 2 minutes, providing efficient feedback during the procedure. This successful demonstration of FLIm in coronaries enables future study of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.