The invention generally relates to devices and methods that allow an operator to obtain real-time images of a luminal surface prior to, during, and after an intraluminal procedure, including while an intraluminal tool is engaged with the luminal surface. In one embodiment, an imaging system of the invention includes a guidewire comprising a first imaging element and a catheter comprising a second imaging element and a lumen that is configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the guidewire within. The first and second imaging elements are optical-to-acoustic transducers. The catheter is configured to move along a path of the guidewire to obtain real-time images within the lumen of a vessel and of the luminal surface.
