Fig. 2

Major causes of acute coronary syndromes. The three major causes of thrombus formation are shown by optical coherence tomography-images coupled with corresponding coronary angiography, A, B–C, D plaque rupture (PR), E, F–G, H plaque erosion (PE) and I, J–K, L calcified nodules (CN). In the coronary lumen, an optical coherence tomography catheter and a guidewire providing shadow artefacts are present. Images AB visualise plaque rupture with the discontinuation of a fibrous cap and plaque cavity in the coronary artery. Images CD visualise plaque rupture with calcification, in which more plaque content has been washed away by the flush. Images EF display plaque erosion with the formation of a thrombus on an irregular luminal surface in the left main coronary artery. Images GH display plaque erosion without clear evidence of rupture. Images IJ present a calcified nodule that protrudes into the lumen of the coronary artery. Images LP present a protruding calcified nodule with luminal thrombus formation. The cylinders in the angiographic images indicate the location of the lesions