Study of Atherosclerotic Plaque Activity in Peripheral Arterial Disease Using Advanced Imaging Scans

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the connections between inflammation, microcalcification, and thrombus activity in the arteries of patients with symptomatic peripheral arterial disease PAD. PAD causes narrowing and blockages in the arteries of the lower body, leading to reduced blood flow and symptoms ranging from leg pain to loss of limb parts. This study aims to better understand how these processes behave in different parts of the body to help find targeted treatments and reduce risks of heart attacks and strokes. Participants will undergo advanced imaging scans, including whole-body PET-CT and CT angiograms, using tracers that target inflammation, thrombus activity, and microcalcification in atherosclerotic plaques. The study plans to recruit 100 people with symptomatic PAD and may include those also participating in the LEADER-PAD study. Imaging and assessments will be done from the start of the study up to one year later. During the study, participants will have scans to measure PET tracer uptake in symptomatic limbs and other arterial areas to observe plaque activity and changes over time. The team will evaluate plaque characteristics, cardiovascular risk factors, and the progression of microcalcification. The study will monitor participants for up to one year to review these outcomes and better understand disease progression and risks.

Symptomatic and Systemic Atherosclerotic Plaque Activity in Patients With Peripheral Arterial Disease Using Novel Imaging