Study of Carotid Plaque Blood Vessel Growth Detected by Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in Adults with Asymptomatic Carotid Artery Narrowing

What this Trial Is About

Atherosclerosis is a chronic and progressive disease affecting arteries throughout the body, often developing silently over years. This research investigates how the growth of small blood vessels within carotid artery plaques, detected using contrast-enhanced ultrasound CEUS, may predict the progression of these plaques and the risk of future vascular events like heart attacks, strokes, or the need for vascular interventions. The study aims to improve risk assessment by identifying unstable plaques that are more likely to cause serious problems, helping doctors choose better treatment options. Participants in this observational study undergo CEUS imaging of the carotid artery to detect plaque neovascularization, a sign of plaque vulnerability. No treatments are given as part of the study it focuses on monitoring and assessing carotid artery plaques over time using this non-invasive ultrasound technique. The study includes patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis of 50% or greater, without prior carotid surgery or stenting. During the study, participants will be followed for up to 10 years to monitor the development of vascular events or the need for vascular interventions, as well as changes in carotid stenosis progression. Researchers will assess the presence of new blood vessel growth in plaques and track clinical outcomes to evaluate the predictive value of CEUS imaging. This long-term follow-up helps determine how well intraplaque neovascularization indicates risk, supporting better clinical decisions for patients with carotid artery disease.

Predictive Value of Neovascularization Within Asymptomatic Carotis Stenosis on CEUS