Advanced imaging modalities such as 3D ultrasound, dual-source CTA, and contrast-enhanced MRA provide improved accuracy and safety over traditional x-ray angiography for detecting carotid plaque ulceration.
What are the merits and limitations of various imaging techniques for identifying carotid plaque ulceration?
This review highlights the comparative advantages and limitations of advanced imaging modalities for detecting carotid plaque ulceration, a key marker of plaque vulnerability.
Atherosclerosis remains the leading cause of long-term mortality and morbidity worldwide, despite remarkable advancement in its management. Vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques are principally responsible for thromboembolic events in various arterial territories such as carotid, coronary, and lower limb vessels. Carotid plaque ulceration is one of the key features associated with plaque vulnerability and is considered a notable indicator of previous plaque rupture and possible future cerebrovascular events. Multiple imaging modalities have been used to assess the degree of carotid plaque ulceration for diagnostic and research purposes. Early diagnosis and management of carotid artery disease could prevent further cerebrovascular events. In this review, we highlight the merits and limitations of various imaging techniques for identifying plaque ulceration.
Yuan et al. (Thu,) conducted a review in Carotid atherosclerosis plaque ulceration. Advanced imaging modalities (XRA, US, CTA, MRI) vs. Traditional X-ray contrast angiography (historical) was evaluated. Advanced imaging modalities such as 3D ultrasound, dual-source CTA, and contrast-enhanced MRA provide improved accuracy and safety over traditional x-ray angiography for detecting carotid plaque ulceration.