Study of Blood Flow and Brain Function Changes After Carotid Artery Procedures Comparing Stenting and Surgery

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying patients with significant narrowing of the carotid arteries, a major cause of ischemic stroke. The trial aims to compare two treatment methods carotid artery stenting CAS and carotid endarterectomy CEA, focusing on their long-term effects on artery function and brain health, including cognitive changes after treatment. The study also explores how changes in blood flow and artery wall stress relate to risks of complications and artery narrowing after treatment. Participants will undergo carotid artery revascularization through either CAS or CEA. The study involves detailed imaging with multimodal MRI before treatment and at follow-ups, along with cognitive tests conducted before treatment and repeatedly for up to four years. Researchers will analyze blood flow patterns, arterial wall stress indices, and brain imaging results to understand how these factors relate to post-treatment outcomes. During the study, participants will complete cognitive assessments at baseline, 44 days, and annually up to four years. MRI scans will be performed within two weeks of enrollment and prior to intervention, with standardized protocols to ensure consistent imaging quality. Primary outcomes measured after one year include changes in cognitive scores, carotid artery narrowing, and blood flow dynamics. Secondary outcomes include detection of silent brain infarcts, white matter changes, cardiovascular events, and mortality rates. The study is observational and aims to find new predictors of recovery and complications after carotid artery procedures.

Change of Hemodynamics and Cerebral Functions After Carotid Artery Revascularization