Layer-based approach for determining quantitative scattering parameters of atherosclerotic plaque components using OCT

Classification of atherosclerotic plaques in vivo remains challenging, even with high-resolution optical techniques, such as intravascular optical coherence tomography (OCT). Plaques contain lipid-rich, fibrous, and calcified components with unique optical properties, enabling their discrimination by quantitative light scattering analysis. We present an approach for improved computation of depth-resolved attenuation coefficients in OCT capable of determining layer-resolved backscattering fractions, thus providing complementary quantitative scattering metrics descriptive of the tissue’s physical properties. We report preliminary findings showing meaningful lesion contrast in quantitative scattering parameters in clinical and cadaver heart pullbacks, which stand to provide additional tools for improved classification of atherosclerotic plaques.