Intravascular Ultrasound for Peripheral Artery Disease

(INVIGOR Trial)

This trial tests whether a special type of ultrasound, called intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), can improve outcomes for people with peripheral artery disease (PAD) during leg artery treatment. Peripheral artery disease narrows the arteries in the legs, causing pain and difficulty walking. The study compares two groups: one receives the ultrasound treatment, and the other does not. It seeks patients with PAD symptoms and more than 50% artery narrowing, as shown on an angiogram, who are candidates for minimally invasive artery treatment. As an unphased trial, this study allows patients to contribute to innovative research that could enhance PAD treatment options.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) is generally safe. One study found no major differences in safety outcomes, such as death or major bleeding, when comparing IVUS to other methods. Another large study demonstrated that IVUS improved long-term results for treating blood vessel problems in the legs. These findings suggest that IVUS is well-tolerated and beneficial in medical procedures. Overall, IVUS has been used safely and effectively in similar treatments, making it a promising option for patients considering joining a clinical trial.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about using Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) for treating Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) because it offers a unique approach to visualizing and targeting artery blockages. Unlike traditional imaging techniques, IVUS provides real-time, detailed images from inside the blood vessels, potentially leading to more accurate and effective treatment decisions. This could result in better patient outcomes by precisely locating and assessing the severity of blockages, allowing for more tailored interventions.

Research has shown that using intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) during treatments for peripheral artery disease (PAD) can lead to better outcomes. In this trial, one group of participants will receive treatment with IVUS, while another group will receive treatment without it. One study found that patients who had IVUS experienced a much lower rate of arteries narrowing again, at 22%, compared to 57% for those without IVUS. Another large study demonstrated a 32% reduction in major limb events, such as amputations, when IVUS was used. These findings suggest that IVUS improves the success of PAD treatments by providing clearer images inside the blood vessels.³⁶⁷⁸⁹