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Wang J, Yu F, Zhang M, Lu J, Qian Z. A 3D framework for segmentation of carotid artery vessel wall and identification of plaque compositions in multi-sequence MR images. Comput Med Imaging Graph 2024; 116:102402. [PMID: 38810486 DOI: 10.1016/j.compmedimag.2024.102402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Accurately assessing carotid artery wall thickening and identifying risky plaque components are critical for early diagnosis and risk management of carotid atherosclerosis. In this paper, we present a 3D framework for automated segmentation of the carotid artery vessel wall and identification of the compositions of carotid plaque in multi-sequence magnetic resonance (MR) images under the challenge of imperfect manual labeling. Manual labeling is commonly done in 2D slices of these multi-sequence MR images and often lacks perfect alignment across 2D slices and the multiple MR sequences, leading to labeling inaccuracies. To address such challenges, our framework is split into two parts: a segmentation subnetwork and a plaque component identification subnetwork. Initially, a 2D localization network pinpoints the carotid artery's position, extracting the region of interest (ROI) from the input images. Following that, a signed-distance-map-enabled 3D U-net (Çiçek etal, 2016)an adaptation of the nnU-net (Ronneberger and Fischer, 2015) segments the carotid artery vessel wall. This method allows for the concurrent segmentation of the vessel wall area using the signed distance map (SDM) loss (Xue et al., 2020) which regularizes the segmentation surfaces in 3D and reduces erroneous segmentation caused by imperfect manual labels. Subsequently, the ROI of the input images and the obtained vessel wall masks are extracted and combined to obtain the identification results of plaque components in the identification subnetwork. Tailored data augmentation operations are introduced into the framework to reduce the false positive rate of calcification and hemorrhage identification. We trained and tested our proposed method on a dataset consisting of 115 patients, and it achieves an accurate segmentation result of carotid artery wall (0.8459 Dice), which is superior to the best result in published studies (0.7885 Dice). Our approach yielded accuracies of 0.82, 0.73 and 0.88 for the identification of calcification, lipid-rich core and hemorrhage components. Our proposed framework can be potentially used in clinical and research settings to help radiologists perform cumbersome reading tasks and evaluate the risk of carotid plaques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Wang
- Institute of Intelligent Diagnostics, Beijing United-Imaging Research Institute of Intelligent Imaging, Building 3-4F, 9 Yongteng N. Road, Beijing 100080, China.
| | - Fan Yu
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Changchun Street, No. 45, Beijing 100053, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Brain Informatics, Beijing 100053, China.
| | - Mengze Zhang
- Institute of Intelligent Diagnostics, Beijing United-Imaging Research Institute of Intelligent Imaging, Building 3-4F, 9 Yongteng N. Road, Beijing 100080, China.
| | - Jie Lu
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Changchun Street, No. 45, Beijing 100053, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Brain Informatics, Beijing 100053, China.
| | - Zhen Qian
- Institute of Intelligent Diagnostics, Beijing United-Imaging Research Institute of Intelligent Imaging, Building 3-4F, 9 Yongteng N. Road, Beijing 100080, China.
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Jędrzejczak K, Antonowicz A, Butruk-Raszeja B, Orciuch W, Wojtas K, Piasecki P, Narloch J, Wierzbicki M, Makowski Ł. Three-Dimensionally Printed Elastic Cardiovascular Phantoms for Carotid Angioplasty Training and Personalized Healthcare. J Clin Med 2024; 13:5115. [PMID: 39274329 PMCID: PMC11396471 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13175115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2024] [Revised: 08/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Objective: Atherosclerosis is becoming increasingly common in modern society. Owing to the increasing number of complex angioplasty procedures, there is an increasing need for training in cases where the risk of periprocedural complications is high. Methods: A procedure was developed to obtain three-dimensional (3D) models and printing of blood vessels. The mechanical and optical properties of the printed materials were also examined. Angioplasty and stent implantation were tested, and the phantom was compared with the clinical data of patients who underwent interventional treatment. Both laser techniques and cone-beam computed tomography of the phantoms were used for comparison. Results: The printed material exhibited mechanical parameters similar to those of blood vessel walls. The refractive index of 1.473 ± 0.002 and high transparency allowed for non-invasive laser examination of the interior of the print. The printed models behaved similarly to human arteries in vivo, allowing training in treatment procedures and considering vessel deformation during the procedure. Models with stents can be analyzed using laser and cone-beam computed tomography to compare stents from different manufacturers. Conclusions: The developed methodology allows for simple and time-efficient production of personalized vessel phantoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krystian Jędrzejczak
- Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Waryńskiego 1, 00-645 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Arkadiusz Antonowicz
- Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Waryńskiego 1, 00-645 Warsaw, Poland
- Eurotek International Sp.z o.o., Skrzetuskiego 6, 02-726 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Beata Butruk-Raszeja
- Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Waryńskiego 1, 00-645 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wojciech Orciuch
- Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Waryńskiego 1, 00-645 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Wojtas
- Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Waryńskiego 1, 00-645 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Piasecki
- Interventional Radiology Department, Military Institute of Medicine-National Research Institute, Szaserów 128, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jerzy Narloch
- Interventional Radiology Department, Military Institute of Medicine-National Research Institute, Szaserów 128, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marek Wierzbicki
- Interventional Radiology Department, Military Institute of Medicine-National Research Institute, Szaserów 128, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Łukasz Makowski
- Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Waryńskiego 1, 00-645 Warsaw, Poland
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Pakizer D, Kozel J, Elmers J, Feber J, Michel P, Školoudík D, Sirimarco G. Diagnostics Accuracy of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Detection of Atherosclerotic Plaque Characteristics in Carotid Arteries Compared to Histology: A Systematic Review. J Magn Reson Imaging 2024. [PMID: 38981139 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.29522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Carotid plaque composition represents one of the main risk factors of future ischemic stroke. MRI provides excellent soft tissue contrast that can distinguish plaque characteristics. Our objective was to analyze the diagnostic accuracy of MRI imaging in the detection of carotid plaque characteristics compared to histology in patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis through a systematic review. After prospective registration in PROSPERO (ID CRD42022329690), Medline Ovid, Embase.com, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science Core were searched without any search limitation up to May 27, 2022 to identify eligible articles. Of the 8168 studies, 53 (37 × 1.5 T MRI, 17 × 3 T MRI) evaluated MRI accuracy in the detection of 13 specific carotid plaque characteristics in 169 comparisons. MRI demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy for detection of calcification (3 T MRI: mean sensitivity 92%/mean specificity 90%; 1.5 T MRI: mean sensitivity 81%/mean specificity 91%), fibrous cap (1.5 T: 89%/87%), unstable plaque (1.5 T: 89%/87%), intraplaque hemorrhage (1.5 T: 86%/88%), and lipid-rich necrotic core (1.5 T: 89%/79%). MRI also proved to have a high level of tissue discrimination for the carotid plaque characteristics investigated, allowing potentially for a better risk assessment and follow-up of patients who may benefit from more aggressive treatments. These results emphasize the role of MRI as the first-line imaging modality for comprehensive assessment of carotid plaque morphology, particularly for unstable plaque. EVIDENCE LEVEL: 2 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Pakizer
- Centre for Health Research, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Kozel
- Centre for Health Research, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Jolanda Elmers
- Medical Library, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Janusz Feber
- Centre for Health Research, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Patrik Michel
- Stroke Center, Service of Neurology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - David Školoudík
- Centre for Health Research, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Gaia Sirimarco
- Stroke Center, Service of Neurology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Neurology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Riviera Chablais Hospital, Rennaz, Switzerland
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Wen L, Fu X, Zhang H, Ye P, Fu H, Zhou Z, Sun R, Xu T, Fu C, Zhu C, Guo Y, Fan H. Tailoring Zinc Ferrite Nanoparticle Surface Coating for Macrophage-Affinity Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Atherosclerosis. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:13496-13508. [PMID: 38449094 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c17212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, while macrophages as key players in plaque progression and destabilization are promising targets for atherosclerotic plaque imaging. Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (CE-MRI) has emerged as a powerful noninvasive imaging technique for the evaluation of atherosclerotic plaques within arterial walls. However, the visualization of macrophages within atherosclerotic plaques presents considerable challenges due to the intricate pathophysiology of the disease and the dynamic behavior of these cells. Biocompatible ferrite nanoparticles with diverse surface ligands possess the potential to exhibit distinct relaxivity and cellular affinity, enabling improved imaging capabilities for macrophages in atherosclerosis. In this work, we report macrophage-affinity nanoparticles for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of atherosclerosis via tailoring nanoparticle surface coating. The ultrasmall zinc ferrite nanoparticles (Zn0.4Fe2.6O4) as T1 contrast agents were synthesized and modified with dopamine, 3,4-dihydroxyhydrocinnamic acid, and phosphorylated polyethylene glycol to adjust their surface charges to be positively, negatively, and neutrally charged, respectively. In vitro MRI evaluation shows that the T1 relaxivity for different surface charged Zn0.4Fe2.6O4 nanoparticles was three higher than that of the clinically used Gd-DTPA. Furthermore, in vivo atherosclerotic plaque MR imaging indicates that positively charged Zn0.4Fe2.6O4 showed superior MRI efficacy on carotid atherosclerosis than the other two, which is ascribed to high affinity to macrophages of positively charged nanoparticles. This work provides improved diagnostic capability and a better understanding of the molecular imaging of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyi Wen
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 614001, China
| | - Xiaomin Fu
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 614001, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, China
- School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
- Department of Radiology, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University), Zhuhai 519000, China
| | - Pengfei Ye
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 614001, China
| | - Hang Fu
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 614001, China
| | - Zhongqin Zhou
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 614001, China
| | - Ran Sun
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 614001, China
| | - Ting Xu
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 614001, China
| | - Chuan Fu
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 614001, China
| | - Chengcheng Zhu
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105, United States
| | - Yingkun Guo
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 614001, China
| | - Haiming Fan
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 614001, China
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, China
- School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
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5
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Shen R, Tong X, Zhao C, Qiao H, Ning Z, Li J, Zhao H, Yuan C, Zhao X. Atherosclerotic plaque characteristics in extracranial carotid artery may indicate closer association with white matter hyperintensities than intracranial arteries: A CARE-II study. Eur J Radiol 2024; 170:111208. [PMID: 37988960 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2023.111208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the associations of atherosclerotic plaque characteristics in intracranial and extracranial carotid arteries with severity of white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) in symptomatic patients using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. METHOD Patients with cerebrovascular symptoms and carotid plaque were recruited from the cross-sectional, multicenter study of CARE-II. Luminal stenosis of intracranial and extracranial carotid arteries, carotid plaque compositional features, and WMHs were evaluated by brain structural and vascular MR imaging. The atherosclerotic plaque characteristics in intracranial and extracranial carotid arteries were compared between patients with and without moderate-to-severe WMHs (Fazekas score > 2), and their associations with severity of WMHs were analyzed using logistic regression. RESULTS Of the recruited 622 patients (mean age, 58.7 ± 10.9 years; 422 males), 221 (35.5 %) had moderate-to-severe WMHs with higher prevalence of moderate-to-severe luminal stenosis (17.0 % vs. 10.4 %), intraplaque hemorrhage (15.7 % vs. 9.0 %), thin/ruptured fibrous cap (30.2 % vs. 20.4 %), calcification (44.4 % vs. 22.2 %) and lipid-rich necrotic core (63.8 % vs. 51.1 %) in carotid artery compared to those without (all P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression showed that carotid calcification (OR, 1.854; 95 % CI, 1.187-2.898; P = 0.007) was independently associated with moderate-to-severe WMHs after adjusting for confounding factors. No significant association was found between intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis and moderate-to-severe WMHs (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION Carotid atherosclerotic plaque features, particularly presence of calcification, were independently associated with severity of WMHs, but such association was not found in intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis, suggesting that carotid atherosclerotic plaque characteristics may have closer association with severity of WMHs compared to intracranial atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Shen
- Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyu Tong
- Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Chenyang Zhao
- Department of Radiology, the Affiliated BenQ Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huiyu Qiao
- Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Zihan Ning
- Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Li
- Department of Radiology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Huilin Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chun Yuan
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Xihai Zhao
- Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
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Fernández-Alvarez V, Linares-Sánchez M, Suárez C, López F, Guntinas-Lichius O, Mäkitie AA, Bradley PJ, Ferlito A. Novel Imaging-Based Biomarkers for Identifying Carotid Plaque Vulnerability. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1236. [PMID: 37627301 PMCID: PMC10452902 DOI: 10.3390/biom13081236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Carotid artery disease has traditionally been assessed based on the degree of luminal narrowing. However, this approach, which solely relies on carotid stenosis, is currently being questioned with regard to modern risk stratification approaches. Recent guidelines have introduced the concept of the "vulnerable plaque," emphasizing specific features such as thin fibrous caps, large lipid cores, intraplaque hemorrhage, plaque rupture, macrophage infiltration, and neovascularization. In this context, imaging-based biomarkers have emerged as valuable tools for identifying higher-risk patients. Non-invasive imaging modalities and intravascular techniques, including ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, intravascular ultrasound, optical coherence tomography, and near-infrared spectroscopy, have played pivotal roles in characterizing and detecting unstable carotid plaques. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the evolving understanding of carotid artery disease and highlight the significance of imaging techniques in assessing plaque vulnerability and informing clinical decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verónica Fernández-Alvarez
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Hospital Universitario de Cabueñes, 33394 Gijón, Spain;
| | - Miriam Linares-Sánchez
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Hospital Universitario de Cabueñes, 33394 Gijón, Spain;
| | - Carlos Suárez
- Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias, 33011 Oviedo, Spain; (C.S.); (F.L.)
| | - Fernando López
- Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias, 33011 Oviedo, Spain; (C.S.); (F.L.)
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Instituto Universitario de Oncologia del Principado de Asturias, University of Oviedo, CIBERONC, 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| | | | - Antti A. Mäkitie
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 263, 00029 Helsinki, Finland;
- Research Program in Systems Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Division of Ear, Nose and Throat Diseases, Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Patrick J. Bradley
- Department of ORLHNS, Queens Medical Centre Campus, Nottingham University Hospitals, Derby Road, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK;
| | - Alfio Ferlito
- Coordinator of the International Head and Neck Scientific Group, 35100 Padua, Italy;
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Mohd AB, Alabdallat Y, Mohd OB, Ghannam RA, Sawaqed S, Hasan H, Ellebedy M, Turkmani K, Al-Ezzi S. Medical and Surgical Management of Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Carotid Artery Stenosis: A Comprehensive Literature Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e43263. [PMID: 37692579 PMCID: PMC10491926 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Carotid artery stenosis is a condition where the carotid artery is blocked by fatty cholesterol deposits called plaque, increasing the risk of stroke. Elderly individuals with high cardiovascular risk are more susceptible, along with smokers, those with high cholesterol, males, and older individuals. Young females may also be affected by fibromuscular dysplasia. Carotid stenosis significantly raises stroke risk, and the severity is closely linked to stroke incidence and other cardiovascular events. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent complications. Treatment options include medical and surgical interventions, such as carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and carotid artery stenting (CAS). The choice between surgery and medical management varies depending on patient characteristics and risk factors. This review explores carotid artery stenosis pathophysiology, risk factors, the importance of early detection and treatment, and the surgical approaches of CEA and CAS, addressing their roles and controversies. Healthcare professionals must understand these aspects to provide optimal care to patients with this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed B Mohd
- Faculty of Medicine, Hashemite University, Zarqa, JOR
| | | | - Omar B Mohd
- Faculty of Medicine, Hashemite University, Zarqa, JOR
| | | | - Seri Sawaqed
- Infectious Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Hashemite University, Zarqa, JOR
| | - Hanan Hasan
- Medical Laboratory, The Lab Medical Laboratories, Amman, JOR
| | | | | | - Shakir Al-Ezzi
- Internal Medicine, Hospital Corporation of America (HCA) Medical City Arlington, Dallas, USA
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8
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Peret A, Romero-Sanchez G, Dabiri M, McNally JS, Johnson KM, Mossa-Basha M, Eisenmenger LB. MR Angiography of Extracranial Carotid Disease. Magn Reson Imaging Clin N Am 2023; 31:395-411. [PMID: 37414468 DOI: 10.1016/j.mric.2023.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Magnetic resonance angiography sequences, such as time-of-flight and contrast-enhanced angiography, provide clear depiction of vessel lumen, traditionally used to evaluate carotid pathologic conditions such as stenosis, dissection, and occlusion; however, atherosclerotic plaques with a similar degree of stenosis may vary tremendously from a histopathological standpoint. MR vessel wall imaging is a promising noninvasive method to evaluate the content of the vessel wall at high spatial resolution. This is particularly interesting in the case of atherosclerosis as vessel wall imaging can identify higher risk, vulnerable plaques as well as has potential applications in the evaluation of other carotid pathologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Peret
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Griselda Romero-Sanchez
- Department of Radiology, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Medicas y Nutricion Salvador Zubiran, Avenida Vasco de Quiroga No.15, Colonia Belisario Domínguez Sección XVI, Delegación Tlalpan C.P.14080, Ciudad de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mona Dabiri
- Radiology Department, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Science, No 63, Gharib Avenue, Keshavarz Blv, Tehran 1419733151, Iran
| | - Joseph Scott McNally
- Department of Radiology, University of Utah, 50 N Medical Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Kevin M Johnson
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Mahmud Mossa-Basha
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Laura B Eisenmenger
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
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Ren L, Xu R, Zhao C, Li W, Wang S, Cao C, Gong Y, Zhu J, Feng X, Ren B, Xia S. Tortuosity and Proximal-Specific Hemodynamics Associated with Plaque Location in the Carotid Bulb Stenosis. J Vasc Res 2023; 60:160-171. [PMID: 37499638 DOI: 10.1159/000531584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atherosclerotic plaque locations in the carotid bulb increasingly have been found to be associated with patterns of ischemic lesions and plaque progression. However, the occurrence of carotid bulb plaque is a complex process. We aimed to investigate plaque characteristics and geometric and hemodynamic parameters among patients with body and apical plaques of the carotid bulb and to identify the mechanism of bulb plaque formation and location. METHODS Consecutive patients with single carotid bulb stenosis (50-99%) were enrolled retrospectively. Patients were divided into body and apical plaque groups based on plaque location. Plaque location and characteristics were identified and measured on high-resolution vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging. Geometric parameters were derived from time-of-flight magnetic resonance imaging. Computational fluid dynamics simulations were performed to quantify wall shear stress (WSS) and four associated WSS-based metrics on the plaque side, on the non-plaque side, and in different parts of the lesion. Plaque characteristics and geometric and hemodynamic parameters were compared, and their associations with the plaque location were determined. RESULTS Seventy patients were recruited (41 body plaques and 29 apical plaques). WSSplaque values were lower than WSSnon-plaque values for all plaques (median [interquartile range], 12.59 [9.83-22.14] vs. 17.27 [11.63-27.63] Pa, p = 0.001). In a multivariate binary logistic regression, the tortuosity of the stenosed region, the magnitudes of the mean relative residence time, and the minimum transverse WSS in the proximal part of the lesion were the key factors independently associated with plaque location (p = 0.022, 0.013, and 0.012, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Plaque formation was associated with the local flow pattern, and the tortuosity and proximal-specific hemodynamics were significantly associated with plaque location in the carotid bulb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Ren
- Department of Radiology, First Central Clinical School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Radiology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Rongjie Xu
- College of Computer Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Chenxi Zhao
- Department of Radiology, First Central Clinical School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenfei Li
- Department of Radiology, First Central Clinical School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Radiology, First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, Qinhuangdao, China
| | - Shu Wang
- Department of Breast Oncoplastic Surgery, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Chen Cao
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin University Huanhu Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yan Gong
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Nankai Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jinxia Zhu
- MR Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Xuequan Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin First Central Hospital, School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Bo Ren
- College of Computer Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuang Xia
- Department of Radiology, Medical Imaging Institute of Tianjin, Tianjin First Central Hospital, School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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Boswell-Patterson CA, Hétu MF, Pang SC, Herr JE, Zhou J, Jain S, Bambokian A, Johri AM. Novel theranostic approaches to neovascularized atherosclerotic plaques. Atherosclerosis 2023; 374:1-10. [PMID: 37149970 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2023.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
As the global burden of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease continues to rise, there is an increased demand for improved imaging techniques for earlier detection of atherosclerotic plaques and new therapeutic targets. Plaque lesions, vulnerable to rupture and thrombosis, are thought to be responsible for the majority of cardiovascular events, and are characterized by a large lipid core, a thin fibrous cap, and neovascularization. In addition to supplying the plaque core with increased inflammatory factors, these pathological neovessels are tortuous and leaky, further increasing the risk of intraplaque hemorrhage. Clinically, plaque neovascularization has been shown to be a significant and independent predictor of adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Microvessels can be detected through contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) imaging, however, clinical assessment in vivo is generally limited to qualitative measures of plaque neovascularization. There is no validated standard for quantitative assessment of the microvessel networks found in plaques. Advances in our understanding of the pathological mechanisms underlying plaque neovascularization and its significant role in the morbidity and mortality associated with atherosclerosis have made it an attractive area of research in translational medicine. Current areas of research include the development of novel therapeutic and diagnostic agents to target plaque neovascularization stabilization. With recent progress in nanotechnology, nanoparticles have been investigated for their ability to specifically target neovascularization. Contrast microbubbles have been similarly engineered to carry loads of therapeutic agents and can be visualized using CEUS. This review summarizes the pathogenesis, diagnosis, clinical significance of neovascularization, and importantly the emerging areas of theranostic tool development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marie-France Hétu
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's (CINQ), Queen's University, Canada
| | - Stephen C Pang
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Julia E Herr
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's (CINQ), Queen's University, Canada
| | - Jianhua Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shagun Jain
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's (CINQ), Queen's University, Canada
| | - Alexander Bambokian
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's (CINQ), Queen's University, Canada
| | - Amer M Johri
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada; Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's (CINQ), Queen's University, Canada.
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11
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Li X, Liu C, Zhu L, Wang M, Liu Y, Li S, Deng Q, Zhou J. The Role of High-Resolution Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Cerebrovascular Disease: A Narrative Review. Brain Sci 2023; 13:brainsci13040677. [PMID: 37190642 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13040677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HRMRI) is the most important and popular vessel wall imaging technique for the direct assessment of vessel wall and cerebral arterial disease. It can identify the cause of stroke in high-risk plaques and differentiate the diagnosis of head and carotid artery dissection, including inflammation, Moya Moya disease, cerebral aneurysm, vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage, reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome, blunt cerebrovascular injury, cerebral arteriovenous malformations, and other stenosis or occlusion conditions. Through noninvasive visualization of the vessel wall in vitro, quantified assessment of luminal stenosis and pathological features of the vessel wall can provide clinicians with further disease information. In this report, technical considerations of HRMRI are discussed, and current clinical applications of HRMRI are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Li
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
| | - Chengfang Liu
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
| | - Lin Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
| | - Yukai Liu
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
| | - Shuo Li
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
| | - Qiwen Deng
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China
| | - Junshan Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
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12
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Carotid Plaque Vulnerability Diagnosis by CTA versus MRA: A Systematic Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13040646. [PMID: 36832133 PMCID: PMC9955971 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13040646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Stenosis grade of the carotid arteries has been the primary indicator for risk stratification and surgical treatment of carotid artery disease. Certain characteristics of the carotid plaque render it vulnerable and have been associated with increased plaque rupture rates. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) have been shown to detect these characteristics to a different degree. The aim of the current study was to report on the detection of vulnerable carotid plaque characteristics by CTA and MRA and their possible association. A systematic review of the medical literature was executed, utilizing PubMed, SCOPUS and CENTRAL databases, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. The study protocol has been registered to PROSPERO (CRD42022381801). Comparative studies reporting on both CTA and MRA carotid artery studies were included in the analysis. The QUADAS tools were used for risk of bias diagnostic imaging studies. Outcomes included carotid plaque vulnerability characteristics described in CTA and MRA and their association. Five studies, incorporating 377 patients and 695 carotid plaques, were included. Four studies reported on symptomatic status (326 patients, 92.9%). MRA characteristics included intraplaque hemorrhage, plaque ulceration, type VI AHA plaque hallmarks and intra-plaque high-intensity signal. Intraplaque hemorrhage detected in MRA was the most described characteristic and was associated with increased plaque density, increased lumen stenosis, plaque ulceration and increased soft-plaque and hard-plaque thickness. Certain characteristics of vulnerable carotid plaques can be detected in carotid artery CTA imaging studies. Nevertheless, MRA continues to provide more detailed and thorough imaging. Both imaging modalities can be applied for comprehensive carotid artery work-up, each one complementing the other.
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Luo J, Wang T, Yang K, Wang X, Xu R, Gong H, Zhang X, Wang J, Yang R, Gao P, Ma Y, Jiao L. Endovascular therapy versus medical treatment for symptomatic intracranial artery stenosis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 2:CD013267. [PMID: 36738471 PMCID: PMC9897029 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013267.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intracranial artery stenosis (ICAS) is an arterial narrowing in the brain that can cause stroke. Endovascular therapy (ET) and conventional medical treatment (CMT) may prevent recurrent ischaemic stroke caused by ICAS. However, there is no consensus on the best treatment for people with ICAS. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the safety and efficacy of endovascular therapy plus conventional medical treatment compared with conventional medical treatment alone for the management of symptomatic intracranial artery stenosis. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, four other databases, and three trials registries on 16 August 2022. We contacted study authors and researchers when we required additional information. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing ET plus CMT with CMT alone for the treatment of symptomatic ICAS. ET modalities included angioplasty alone, balloon-mounted stent, and angioplasty followed by placement of a self-expanding stent. CMT included antiplatelet therapy in addition to control of risk factors such as hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, and diabetes. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently screened the records to select eligible RCTs, then extracted data from them. We resolved any disagreements through discussion, reaching consensus decisions among the full team. We assessed risk of bias and applied the GRADE approach to assess the certainty of the evidence. The primary outcome was death by any cause or non-fatal stroke of any type within three months of randomisation. Secondary outcomes included all-cause death or non-fatal stroke of any type occurring more than three months after randomisation, ipsilateral stroke, transient ischaemic attack, ischaemic stroke, haemorrhagic stroke, death, restenosis, dependency, and health-related quality of life. MAIN RESULTS We included four RCTs with 989 participants who had symptomatic ICAS, with an age range of 18 to 85 years. We identified two ongoing RTCs. All trials had high risk of performance bias, as it was impossible to blind participants and personnel to the intervention. Three trials were terminated early. One trial was at high risk of attrition bias because of substantial loss to follow-up after one year and a high proportion of participants transferring from ET to CMT. The certainty of evidence ranged from low to moderate; we downgraded for imprecision. Compared to CMT alone, ET plus CMT probably increases the risk of short-term death or stroke (risk ratio (RR) 2.93, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.81 to 4.75; 4 RCTs, 989 participants; moderate certainty), short-term ipsilateral stroke (RR 3.26, 95% CI 1.94 to 5.48; 4 RCTs, 989 participants; moderate certainty), short-term ischaemic stroke (RR 2.24, 95% CI 1.30 to 3.87; 4 RCTs, 989 participants; moderate certainty), and long-term death or stroke (RR 1.49, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.99; 4 RCTs, 970 participants; moderate certainty). Compared to CMT alone, ET plus CMT may increase the risk of short-term haemorrhagic stroke (RR 13.49, 95% CI 2.59 to 70.15; 4 RCTs, 989 participants; low certainty), short-term death (RR 5.43, 95% CI 1.21 to 24.40; 4 RCTs, 989 participants; low certainty), and long-term haemorrhagic stroke (RR 7.81, 95% CI 1.43 to 42.59; 3 RCTs, 879 participants; low certainty). It is unclear if ET plus CMT compared with CMT alone has an effect on the risk of short-term transient ischaemic attack (RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.30 to 2.07; 3 RCTs, 344 participants; moderate certainty), long-term transient ischaemic attack (RR 1.05, 95% CI 0.50 to 2.19; 3 RCTs, 335 participants; moderate certainty), long-term ipsilateral stroke (RR 1.78, 95% CI 1.00 to 3.17; 4 RCTs, 970 participants; moderate certainty), long-term ischaemic stroke (RR 1.56, 95% CI 0.77 to 3.16; 4 RCTs, 970 participants; moderate certainty), long-term death (RR 1.61, 95% CI 0.77 to 3.38; 4 RCTs, 951 participants; moderate certainty), and long-term dependency (RR 1.51, 95% CI 0.93 to 2.45; 4 RCTs, 947 participants; moderate certainty). No subgroup analyses significantly modified the effect of ET plus CMT versus CMT alone. The trials included no data on restenosis or health-related quality of life. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This review provides moderate-certainty evidence that ET plus CMT compared with CMT alone increases the risk of short-term stroke and death in people with recent symptomatic severe ICAS. This effect was still apparent at long-term follow-up but appeared to be due to the early risks of ET; therefore, there may be no clear difference between the interventions in terms of their effects on long-term stroke and death. The impact of delayed ET intervention (more than three weeks after a qualifying event) warrants further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jichang Luo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Kun Yang
- Department of Evidence-based Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xue Wang
- Medical Library of Xuanwu Hospital, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ran Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Haozhi Gong
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Renjie Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Peng Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Yan Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Liqun Jiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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14
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Saba L, Loewe C, Weikert T, Williams MC, Galea N, Budde RPJ, Vliegenthart R, Velthuis BK, Francone M, Bremerich J, Natale L, Nikolaou K, Dacher JN, Peebles C, Caobelli F, Redheuil A, Dewey M, Kreitner KF, Salgado R. State-of-the-art CT and MR imaging and assessment of atherosclerotic carotid artery disease: standardization of scanning protocols and measurements-a consensus document by the European Society of Cardiovascular Radiology (ESCR). Eur Radiol 2023; 33:1063-1087. [PMID: 36194267 PMCID: PMC9889495 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-022-09024-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The European Society of Cardiovascular Radiology (ESCR) is the European specialist society of cardiac and vascular imaging. This society's highest priority is the continuous improvement, development, and standardization of education, training, and best medical practice, based on experience and evidence. The present intra-society consensus is based on the existing scientific evidence and on the individual experience of the members of the ESCR writing group on carotid diseases, the members of the ESCR guidelines committee, and the members of the executive committee of the ESCR. The recommendations published herein reflect the evidence-based society opinion of ESCR. We have produced a twin-papers consensus, indicated through the documents as respectively "Part I" and "Part II." The first document (Part I) begins with a discussion of features, role, indications, and evidence for CT and MR imaging-based diagnosis of carotid artery disease for risk stratification and prediction of stroke (Section I). It then provides an extensive overview and insight into imaging-derived biomarkers and their potential use in risk stratification (Section II). Finally, detailed recommendations about optimized imaging technique and imaging strategies are summarized (Section III). The second part of this consensus paper (Part II) is focused on structured reporting of carotid imaging studies with CT/MR. KEY POINTS: • CT and MR imaging-based evaluation of carotid artery disease provides essential information for risk stratification and prediction of stroke. • Imaging-derived biomarkers and their potential use in risk stratification are evolving; their correct interpretation and use in clinical practice must be well-understood. • A correct imaging strategy and scan protocol will produce the best possible results for disease evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Saba
- Department of Radiology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Christian Loewe
- Division of Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Weikert
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michelle C Williams
- BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH164SB, UK
- Edinburgh Imaging Facility QMRI, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Nicola Galea
- Policlinico Umberto I, Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ricardo P J Budde
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rozemarijn Vliegenthart
- Department of Radiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Birgitta K Velthuis
- Department of Radiology, Utrecht University Medical Center, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marco Francone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089, Milan, Italy
| | - Jens Bremerich
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Luigi Natale
- Department of Radiological Sciences - Institute of Radiology, Catholic University of Rome, "A. Gemelli" University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Konstantin Nikolaou
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jean-Nicolas Dacher
- Department of Radiology, Normandie University, UNIROUEN, INSERM U1096 - Rouen University Hospital, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - Charles Peebles
- Department of Cardiothoracic Radiology, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Federico Caobelli
- University Clinic of Nuclear Medicine Inselspital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Alban Redheuil
- Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic, Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Institute of Cardiology, APHP, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, Paris, France
- Laboratoire d'Imagerie Biomédicale, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM 1146, CNRS 7371, Paris, France
| | - Marc Dewey
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Karl-Friedrich Kreitner
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center, Mainz; Langenbeckstraße 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Rodrigo Salgado
- Department of Radiology, Antwerp University Hospital & Antwerp University, Holy Heart Lier, Belgium.
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15
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Derycke L, Avril S, Millon A. Patient-Specific Numerical Simulations of Endovascular Procedures in Complex Aortic Pathologies: Review and Clinical Perspectives. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12030766. [PMID: 36769418 PMCID: PMC9917982 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12030766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The endovascular technique is used in the first line treatment in many complex aortic pathologies. Its clinical outcome is mostly determined by the appropriate selection of a stent-graft for a specific patient and the operator's experience. New tools are still needed to assist practitioners with decision making before and during procedures. For this purpose, numerical simulation enables the digital reproduction of an endovascular intervention with various degrees of accuracy. In this review, we introduce the basic principles and discuss the current literature regarding the use of numerical simulation for endovascular management of complex aortic diseases. Further, we give the future direction of everyday clinical applications, showing that numerical simulation is about to revolutionize how we plan and carry out endovascular interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Derycke
- Department of Cardio-Vascular and Vascular Surgery, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, F-75015 Paris, France
- Centre CIS, Mines Saint-Etienne, Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, INSERM, SAINBIOSE U1059, F-42023 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Stephane Avril
- Centre CIS, Mines Saint-Etienne, Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, INSERM, SAINBIOSE U1059, F-42023 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Antoine Millon
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Louis Pradel University Hospital, F-69500 Bron, France
- Correspondence:
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Catalano O, Bendotti G, Aloi TL, Bardile AF, Memmi M, Gambelli P, Zanaboni D, Gualco A, Cattaneo E, Mazza A, Frascaroli M, Eshja E, Bellazzi R, Poggi P, Forni G, La Rovere MT. Evidence of Carotid Atherosclerosis Vulnerability Regression in Real Life From Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Results of the MAGNETIC Prospective Study. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e026469. [PMID: 36628977 PMCID: PMC9939062 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.122.026469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Background Atherosclerosis vulnerability regression has been evidenced mostly in randomized clinical trials with intensive lipid-lowering therapy. We aimed to demonstrate vulnerability regression in real life, with a comprehensive quantitative method, in patients with asymptomatic mild to moderate carotid atherosclerosis on a secondary prevention program. Methods and Results We conducted a single-center prospective observational study (MAGNETIC [Magnetic Resonance Imaging as a Gold Standard for Noninvasive Evaluation of Atherosclerotic Involvement of Carotid Arteries]): 260 patients enrolled at a cardiac rehabilitation center were followed for 3 years with serial magnetic resonance imaging. Per section cutoffs (95th/5th percentiles) were derived from a sample of 20 consecutive magnetic resonance imaging scans: (1) lipid-rich necrotic core: 26% of vessel wall area; (2) intraplaque hemorrhage: 12% of vessel wall area; and (3) fibrous cap: (a) minimum thickness: 0.06 mm, (b) mean thickness: 0.4 mm, (c) projection length: 11 mm. Patients with baseline magnetic resonance imaging of adequate quality (n=247) were classified as high (n=63, 26%), intermediate (n=65, 26%), or low risk (n=119, 48%), if vulnerability criteria were fulfilled in ≥2 contiguous sections, in 1 or multiple noncontiguous sections, or in any section, respectively. Among high-risk patients, a conversion to any lower-risk status was found in 11 (17%; P=0.614) at 6 months, in 16 (25%; P=0.197) at 1 year, and in 19 (30%; P=0.009) at 3 years. Among patients showing any degree of carotid plaque vulnerability, 21 (16%; P=0.014) were diagnosed at low risk at 3 years. Conclusions This study demonstrates with a quantitative approach that vulnerability regression is common in real life. A secondary prevention program can promote vulnerability regression in asymptomatic patients in the mid to long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oronzo Catalano
- Division of CardiologyIstituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCSPaviaItaly
| | - Giulia Bendotti
- Division of CardiologyIstituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCSPaviaItaly
| | - Teresa L. Aloi
- Angiology UnitIstituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCSPaviaItaly
| | | | - Mirella Memmi
- Molecular CardiologyIstituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCSPaviaItaly
| | - Patrick Gambelli
- Molecular CardiologyIstituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCSPaviaItaly
| | - Daniela Zanaboni
- Division of RadiologyIstituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCSPaviaItaly
| | - Alessandra Gualco
- Division of CardiologyIstituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCSPaviaItaly
| | - Emanuela Cattaneo
- Division of CardiologyIstituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCSPaviaItaly
| | - Antonio Mazza
- Division of CardiologyIstituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCSPaviaItaly
| | - Mauro Frascaroli
- Division of RadiologyIstituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCSPaviaItaly
| | - Esmeralda Eshja
- Division of RadiologyIstituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCSPaviaItaly
| | - Riccardo Bellazzi
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of PaviaPaviaItaly
| | - Paolo Poggi
- Division of RadiologyIstituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCSPaviaItaly
| | - Giovanni Forni
- Division of CardiologyIstituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCSPaviaItaly
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17
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Zhang Y, Cui B, Yang H, Ma J, Yang Y, Yang B, Ma Y, Jiao L, Li X, Lu J. Morphological feature and mapping inflammation in classified carotid plaques in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients: A hybrid 18F-FDG PET/MR study. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1144248. [PMID: 37025371 PMCID: PMC10070967 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1144248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate morphological and inflamed-metabolism features of carotid atherosclerotic plaques between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with hybrid 18F-FDG PET/MR imaging. Methods A total of 20 symptomatic and 20 asymptomatic patients with carotid plaques underwent hybrid 18F-FDG PET/MR scans. American heart association (AHA) lesion types were classified, and plaque compositions were further determined on consecutive MRI axial sections in both carotid arteries. 18F-FDG uptake in carotid arteries was quantified using region of interest (ROI) methods based on maximum standardized uptake values (SUVmax) and target-to-background ratio (TBR) on corresponding positron emission tomography (PET) images. Results A total of seventy-one carotid plaques were quantified. AHA type VI was the most common (23, 32.4%), and the region of carotid bifurcation was the most common place presenting lesions (32, 45.1%). Compared with the asymptomatic group, the prevalence of high-risk features including plaque burden, lumen stenosis, maximum necrotic core area, and maximum intra-plaque hemorrhage area increased in the symptomatic group. Carotid TBR values of plaque in symptomatic group (TBR = 2.56 ± 0.34) was significantly higher than that in asymptomatic group (TBR = 1.57 ± 0.14) (P < 0.05). hs-CRP is an independent risk factor for the stability of carotid plaque. The correlation between normalized wall index (NWI) and TBR values was significantly positive in both the symptomatic and the asymptomatic groups (P < 0.01), and both NWI and TBR were significantly correlated with the level of hs-CRP (P < 0.01). Conclusion Integrated 18F-FDG PET/MR scans presented distinct risk features between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. Hybrid 18F-FDG PET/MR systems combined with clinical serum hs-CRP may help distinguish vulnerable carotid plaques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhang
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Brain Informatics, Beijing, China
| | - Bixiao Cui
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Brain Informatics, Beijing, China
| | - Hongwei Yang
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Brain Informatics, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Ma
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Brain Informatics, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Yang
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Brain Informatics, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Liqun Jiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jie Lu
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Brain Informatics, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jie Lu,
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Li X, Wu M, Li J, Guo Q, Zhao Y, Zhang X. Advanced targeted nanomedicines for vulnerable atherosclerosis plaque imaging and their potential clinical implications. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:906512. [PMID: 36313319 PMCID: PMC9606597 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.906512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis plaques caused by cerebrovascular and coronary artery disease have been the leading cause of death and morbidity worldwide. Precise assessment of the degree of atherosclerotic plaque is critical for predicting the risk of atherosclerosis plaques and monitoring postinterventional outcomes. However, traditional imaging techniques to predict cardiocerebrovascular events mainly depend on quantifying the percentage reduction in luminal diameter, which would immensely underestimate non-stenotic high-risk plaque. Identifying the degree of atherosclerosis plaques still remains highly limited. vNanomedicine-based imaging techniques present unique advantages over conventional techniques due to the superior properties intrinsic to nanoscope, which possess enormous potential for characterization and detection of the features of atherosclerosis plaque vulnerability. Here, we review recent advancements in the development of targeted nanomedicine-based approaches and their applications to atherosclerosis plaque imaging and risk stratification. Finally, the challenges and opportunities regarding the future development and clinical translation of the targeted nanomedicine in related fields are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Xuening Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University Second Hospital, Tianjin, China
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19
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Jain K, Arun Prasad B, Sreedharan SE, Kannath S, Varma RP, Sylaja PN. Studying plaque characteristics in extracranial carotid artery disease using CT angiography - Risk predictors beyond luminal stenosis. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2022; 222:107420. [PMID: 36030729 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2022.107420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Carotid atherosclerosis accounts for around 20 % of ischemic strokes. Literature on CT angiography [CTA] to study plaque morphology is limited. We studied plaque characteristics of extracranial carotid arteries using CTA to ascertain the high risk features beyond luminal stenosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective study design, where patients with carotid territory ischemia who underwent CTA from January 2011 till December 2015 were recruited from medical records. CT images were reviewed for plaque characteristics like attenuation, ulceration, plaque thickness and presence of intraluminal thrombus [ILT] along with percentage stenosis. RESULTS 114 patients with 201 carotids [102 symptomatic and 99 asymptomatic] were reviewed. Mixed density plaques [p = 0.05], ulceration [p = 0.001], ILT [p = 0.004] and higher soft plaque thickness [p < 0.001] were significantly associated with symptomatic carotids whereas calcified plaques were seen in asymptomatic carotids [p = 0.005]. Plaque characteristics were comparable in symptomatic patients with moderate[50-69 %] and severe[70-99 %] stenosis. Multivariate analysis showed that increased soft plaque thickness remained significantly associated with symptomatic carotid. A cut-off value for soft plaque thickness of 2.75 mm could predict symptomatic carotid disease with a sensitivity of 85.2 % and specificity of 68.0 % [Youden's index]. An increase in soft plaque thickness of 4.0 mm significantly predicts change from asymptomatic to symptomatic carotid [p < 0.05]. CONCLUSIONS Of the studied CTA plaque characteristics, soft plaque thickness is an independent predictor of symptomatic disease irrespective of the percentage stenosis. Soft plaque thickness over 2.75 mm and smallest detectable change[4 mm] are new measures to help ascertain the risk of ischemic events in carotid atherosclerotic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Jain
- Comprehensive Stroke Care Centre, Department of Neurology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, India.
| | - B Arun Prasad
- Department of Imaging Sciences and Interventional Radiology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, India.
| | - S E Sreedharan
- Comprehensive Stroke Care Centre, Department of Neurology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, India.
| | - S Kannath
- Department of Imaging Sciences and Interventional Radiology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, India.
| | - R P Varma
- AchuthaMenon Centre for Health Sciences Studies,Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, India.
| | - P N Sylaja
- Comprehensive Stroke Care Centre, Department of Neurology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, India.
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20
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Sakai Y, Lehman VT, Eisenmenger LB, Obusez EC, Kharal GA, Xiao J, Wang GJ, Fan Z, Cucchiara BL, Song JW. Vessel wall MR imaging of aortic arch, cervical carotid and intracranial arteries in patients with embolic stroke of undetermined source: A narrative review. Front Neurol 2022; 13:968390. [PMID: 35968273 PMCID: PMC9366886 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.968390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite advancements in multi-modal imaging techniques, a substantial portion of ischemic stroke patients today remain without a diagnosed etiology after conventional workup. Based on existing diagnostic criteria, these ischemic stroke patients are subcategorized into having cryptogenic stroke (CS) or embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS). There is growing evidence that in these patients, non-cardiogenic embolic sources, in particular non-stenosing atherosclerotic plaque, may have significant contributory roles in their ischemic strokes. Recent advancements in vessel wall MRI (VW-MRI) have enabled imaging of vessel walls beyond the degree of luminal stenosis, and allows further characterization of atherosclerotic plaque components. Using this imaging technique, we are able to identify potential imaging biomarkers of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques such as intraplaque hemorrhage, lipid rich necrotic core, and thin or ruptured fibrous caps. This review focuses on the existing evidence on the advantages of utilizing VW-MRI in ischemic stroke patients to identify culprit plaques in key anatomical areas, namely the cervical carotid arteries, intracranial arteries, and the aortic arch. For each anatomical area, the literature on potential imaging biomarkers of vulnerable plaques on VW-MRI as well as the VW-MRI literature in ESUS and CS patients are reviewed. Future directions on further elucidating ESUS and CS by the use of VW-MRI as well as exciting emerging techniques are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Sakai
- Department of Radiology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Vance T. Lehman
- Department of Radiology, The Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Laura B. Eisenmenger
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | | | - G. Abbas Kharal
- Department of Neurology, Cerebrovascular Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Jiayu Xiao
- Department of Radiology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Grace J. Wang
- Department of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Zhaoyang Fan
- Department of Radiology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Brett L. Cucchiara
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Jae W. Song
- Department of Radiology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- *Correspondence: Jae W. Song
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21
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Hu F, Lu F, Xiao H, Dong M, Xu Y. Relationship Between Hypertension and Basilar Atherosclerosis in Chinese Han Population: A High-Resolution Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:830664. [PMID: 35571152 PMCID: PMC9094699 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.830664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the relationship between hypertension and basilar atherosclerosis evaluated by high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HR-MRI) in the Chinese Han population. Methods High resolution-MRI vessel wall imaging was performed in selected 193 patients for various indications. Multivariable logistic regression models based on odds ratio (OR) with their associated 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to assess the relationship between hypertension and basilar artery (BA) plaque, moderate or severe stenosis of BA plaque, and vulnerable plaque. A linear regression model was used to assess the relationship between hypertension and BA plaque numbers. Results Patients with hypertension had a higher proportion of BA plaque and vulnerable plaque as well as more number of enhancements of BA plaque and serious plaque compared with normotensive patients (all values of p < 0.05). Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that patients with hypertension had an increased risk for and more number of enhancements of BA plaque (adjusted-OR: 4.32, 95% CI 1.89–9.88, p < 0.001; adjusted-β: 0.55, 95% CI 0.14–0.96, p = 0.009, respectively) and had a higher proportion of moderate or severe stenosis of BA plaque and vulnerable plaque (adjusted-OR: 3.08, 95% CI 0.77–12.32, p = 0.111; adjusted-OR: 4.52, 95% CI 1.50–13.64, p = 0.007, respectively) compared with the normotensive group. Moreover, there was a saturation effect of age on the prevalence of BA plaque and vulnerable plaque. Conclusion Hypertension was the independent risk factor of BA plaque and vulnerable plaque assessed by HR-MRI in the Chinese Han population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Hu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Feng Lu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Huiling Xiao
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Meixue Dong
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- *Correspondence: Yan Xu,
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22
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He Y, Northrup H, Le H, Cheung AK, Berceli SA, Shiu YT. Medical Image-Based Computational Fluid Dynamics and Fluid-Structure Interaction Analysis in Vascular Diseases. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:855791. [PMID: 35573253 PMCID: PMC9091352 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.855791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Hemodynamic factors, induced by pulsatile blood flow, play a crucial role in vascular health and diseases, such as the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. Computational fluid dynamics, finite element analysis, and fluid-structure interaction simulations have been widely used to quantify detailed hemodynamic forces based on vascular images commonly obtained from computed tomography angiography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, and optical coherence tomography. In this review, we focus on methods for obtaining accurate hemodynamic factors that regulate the structure and function of vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells. We describe the multiple steps and recent advances in a typical patient-specific simulation pipeline, including medical imaging, image processing, spatial discretization to generate computational mesh, setting up boundary conditions and solver parameters, visualization and extraction of hemodynamic factors, and statistical analysis. These steps have not been standardized and thus have unavoidable uncertainties that should be thoroughly evaluated. We also discuss the recent development of combining patient-specific models with machine-learning methods to obtain hemodynamic factors faster and cheaper than conventional methods. These critical advances widen the use of biomechanical simulation tools in the research and potential personalized care of vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong He
- Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Hannah Northrup
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Ha Le
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Alfred K. Cheung
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
- Veterans Affairs Salt Lake City Healthcare System, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Scott A. Berceli
- Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Vascular Surgery Section, Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Yan Tin Shiu
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
- Veterans Affairs Salt Lake City Healthcare System, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
- *Correspondence: Yan Tin Shiu,
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23
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Li J, Wu H, Hang H, Sun B, Zhao H, Chen Z, Zhou Y, Xu J, Chen J, Zhou D, Zhao X, Yuan C. Carotid vulnerable plaque coexisting with cerebral small vessel disease and acute ischemic stroke: a Chinese Atherosclerosis Risk Evaluation study. Eur Radiol 2022; 32:6080-6089. [PMID: 35364716 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-022-08757-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to investigate the associations between carotid vulnerable plaque features coexisting with cerebral small vessel diseases (CSVDs) and acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and, furthermore, to determine whether coexisting diseases had a stronger association with AIS than a single disease. METHODS Patients with cerebrovascular symptoms and carotid plaque were recruited from the cross-sectional, multicenter CARE-II study. The population was divided into two groups (AIS and transient ischemic stroke (TIA)). MRI features of carotid plaques (including luminal stenosis and plaque vulnerabilities) and CSVDs (such as white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) and lacunes) were evaluated. Coexisting diseases were defined as the presence of at least one carotid plaque features and one or more CSVDs feature. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to examine the associations between coexisting diseases and AIS. RESULTS Of the recruited 634 patients (mean age: 59.1 ± 11.3 years; 429 males), 312 (49.2%) patients had AIS. These subjects had a higher prevalence of carotid vulnerable plaques, lacunes, and moderate-to-severe WMHs (a total Fazekas score of 3-6) than those with TIA (42.6% vs. 29.5%, 59.6% vs. 26.4%, 69.9% vs. 60.6%, respectively, all p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed that carotid plaque features coexisting with lacunes or moderate-to-severe WMHs had a stronger association with AIS compared to carotid lesions alone (all p < 0.05) (i.e., vulnerable plaque coexisting with lacunes vs. vulnerable plaque alone, adjusted odds ratio: 3.67 vs. 1.62). CONCLUSIONS Carotid vulnerable plaque features coexisting with CSVDs, particularly lacunes, had a stronger association with AIS compared to carotid lesions alone in a large, symptomatic, cohort. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical trial registration URL: http://www. CLINICALTRIALS gov , unique identifier: NCT02017756 KEY POINTS: • Carotid vulnerable plaque features coexisting with cerebral small vessel diseases, such as lacunes, had a stronger association with acute ischemic stroke compared to single diseases in symptomatic patients. • A comprehensive assessment of coexisting cerebrovascular diseases may help stratify the risk of acute ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Li
- Department of Radiology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Radiology, Nanjing BenQ Medical Center, The Affiliated BenQ Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jianye District, Nanjing, China
| | - Hengqu Wu
- Department of Neurology, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hailun Hang
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Nanjing Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Beibei Sun
- Department of Radiology, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Huilin Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zengai Chen
- Department of Radiology, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Department of Radiology, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianrong Xu
- Department of Radiology, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinmei Chen
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Zhou
- Department of Radiology, Nanjing BenQ Medical Center, The Affiliated BenQ Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jianye District, Nanjing, China.
| | - Xihai Zhao
- Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua University School of Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chun Yuan
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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24
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Detection of Vulnerable Coronary Plaques Using Invasive and Non-Invasive Imaging Modalities. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11051361. [PMID: 35268451 PMCID: PMC8911129 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11051361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) mostly arises from so-called vulnerable coronary plaques, particularly prone for rupture. Vulnerable plaques comprise a specific type of plaque, called the thin-cap fibroatheroma (TFCA). A TCFA is characterized by a large lipid-rich necrotic core, a thin fibrous cap, inflammation, neovascularization, intraplaque hemorrhage, microcalcifications or spotty calcifications, and positive remodeling. Vulnerable plaques are often not visible during coronary angiography. However, different plaque features can be visualized with the use of intracoronary imaging techniques, such as intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), potentially with the addition of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), or optical coherence tomography (OCT). Non-invasive imaging techniques, such as computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA), cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging, and nuclear imaging, can be used as an alternative for these invasive imaging techniques. These invasive and non-invasive imaging modalities can be implemented for screening to guide primary or secondary prevention therapies, leading to a more patient-tailored diagnostic and treatment strategy. Systemic pharmaceutical treatment with lipid-lowering or anti-inflammatory medication leads to plaque stabilization and reduction of cardiovascular events. Additionally, ongoing studies are investigating whether modification of vulnerable plaque features with local invasive treatment options leads to plaque stabilization and subsequent cardiovascular risk reduction.
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25
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Katakami N, Mita T, Maeda N, Sato Y, Watada H, Shimomura I. Evaluation of the effect of tofogliflozin on the tissue characteristics of the carotid wall-a sub-analysis of the UTOPIA trial. Cardiovasc Diabetol 2022; 21:19. [PMID: 35123483 PMCID: PMC8817596 DOI: 10.1186/s12933-022-01451-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have a pleiotropic antiatherogenic effect, they are expected to attenuate the progression of atherosclerosis. However, whether SGLT2 inhibitors affect the tissue characteristics of the human arterial wall remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of tofogliflozin, a selective SGLT2 inhibitor, on the tissue characteristics of the human arterial wall in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients without apparent cardiovascular disease (CVD). METHODS The present study was a post hoc analysis based on data obtained from the Using Tofogliflozin for Possible Better Intervention against Atherosclerosis for Type 2 Diabetes Patients (UTOPIA) trial, which was a multicenter prospective, randomized, open-label, blinded-endpoint study conducted to evaluate the efficacy of tofogliflozin in preventing the progression of atherosclerosis in patients with T2DM. We evaluated the longitudinal change in the ultrasonic tissue characteristics of the carotid wall using gray-scale median (GSM), an established index of ultrasonic tissue characteristics. The right and left intima-medial areas were delineated, and the GSM values were evaluated (right GSM-CCA and left GSM-CCA). The average values of the right and left carotid arteries were defined as "mean GSM-CCA value." RESULTS In a mixed-effects model for repeated measures, mean GSM-CCA, along with the right and left GSM-CCA values, did not significantly change in either the tofogliflozin (n = 168) or conventional treatment group (n = 169). In addition, the tofogliflozin and conventional treatment groups did not significantly differ regarding the change of the mean GSM-CCA (mean difference [95% CI] - 1.24[- 3.87, 1.38], P = 0.35), along with the right (mean difference [95% CI] - 2.33[- 5.70, 1.05], P = 0.18) and the left GSM-CCA (mean difference [95% CI] - 0.29 [- 3.53, 2.95], P = 0.86) values. Similar findings were obtained even after adjusting for traditional cardiovascular risk factors and/or the administration of drugs at baseline. CONCLUSIONS The tissue characteristics of the carotid arterial wall did not change in either the tofogliflozin or conventional treatment group during the 104-week treatment period, and there was no significant difference between the treatment groups. Clinical trial registration UMIN000017607 ( https://www.umin.ac.jp/icdr/index.html ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoto Katakami
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Tomoya Mita
- Department of Metabolism & Endocrinology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Hongo 2-1-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Norikazu Maeda
- Department of Metabolism and Atherosclerosis, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yasunori Sato
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Keio University School of Medicine, 45 Shinanomachi Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Watada
- Department of Metabolism and Atherosclerosis, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Iichiro Shimomura
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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A comparison of carotid atherosclerosis in symptomatic patients between 2002-2005 and 2012-2015 cohorts using multi-contrast magnetic resonance vessel wall imaging. JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC CARDIOLOGY : JGC 2021; 18:623-630. [PMID: 34527028 PMCID: PMC8390937 DOI: 10.11909/j.issn.1671-5411.2021.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the morphological and compositional characteristics of carotid plaques in two cohorts (2002−2005 and 2012−2015) of Chinese patients using magnetic resonance vessel wall imaging. METHODS Symptomatic patients with carotid atherosclerotic plaques who underwent carotid vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging between 2002−2005 and 2012−2015 were retrospectively recruited. Plaque morphology [including mean wall area, wall thickness, and maximum normalized wall index (NWI)] and composition [including calcification, intraplaque hemorrhage, and lipid-rich necrotic core (LRNC)] in symptomatic carotid arteries were evaluated and compared between patients in these two time periods. RESULTS A total of 258 patients, including 129 patients in the 2002−2005 cohort and 129 patients in the 2012−2015 cohort, were recruited. Statin use (49.6%vs. 32.6%, P = 0.004) and hypertension (76.0% vs. 62.8%, P = 0.015) were significantly more common in the 2012–2015 cohort than in the 2002−2005 cohort. Patients in the 2012−2015 cohort also exhibited significantly low plaque burden parameters (allP < 0.05), as well as a lower prevalence (68.2% vs. 89.9%, P < 0.001) and volume percentages of LRNC (11.2% ± 14.2% vs. 25.7% ± 17.7%, P < 0.001). These differences remained significant after adjustment for clinical factors. The differences in the volume percentages of LRNC also remained significant after an additional adjustment for maximum NWI ( P < 0.001).
CONCLUSIONS Patients in the 2012−2015 cohort had a lower plaque burden and volume percentages of LRNC in symptomatic carotid arteries than those in the 2002−2005 cohort. These findings indicate that carotid plaques in the recent cohort had a lower severity and vulnerability.
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27
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Koska J, Migrino RQ, Chan KC, Cooper-Cox K, Reaven PD. The Effect of Exenatide Once Weekly on Carotid Atherosclerosis in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes: An 18-Month Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study. Diabetes Care 2021; 44:1385-1392. [PMID: 33495294 PMCID: PMC8247511 DOI: 10.2337/dc20-2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) improved multiple proatherogenic risk factors and reduced cardiovascular events in recent clinical trials, suggesting that they may slow progression of atherosclerosis. We tested whether exenatide once weekly reduces carotid plaque progression in individuals with type 2 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS In a double-blind, pragmatic trial, 163 participants were randomized (2:1) to exenatide (n = 109) or placebo (n = 54). Changes in carotid plaque volume and composition were measured at 9 and 18 months by multicontrast 3 Tesla MRI. Fasting and post-high-fat meal plasma glucose and lipids, and endothelial function responses, were measured at 3, 9, and 18 months. RESULTS Exenatide reduced hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (estimated difference vs. placebo 0.55%, P = 0.0007) and fasting and postmeal plasma glucose (19 mg/dL, P = 0.0002, and 25 mg/dL, P < 0.0001, respectively). Mean (SD) change in plaque volume in the exenatide group (0.3% [2%]) was not different from that in the placebo group (-2.2% [8%]) (P = 0.4). The change in plaque volume in the exenatide group was associated with changes in HbA1c (r = 0.38, P = 0.0004), body weight, and overall plasma glucose (r = 0.29, P = 0.007 both). There were no differences in changes in plaque composition, body weight, blood pressure, fasting and postmeal plasma triglycerides, and endothelial function between the groups. CONCLUSIONS Exenatide once weekly for up to 18 months improved fasting and postprandial glycemic control but did not modify change in carotid plaque volume or composition. This study raises the possibility that short-term antiatherosclerotic effects may not play a central role in the cardiovascular benefits of GLP-1RAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juraj Koska
- Phoenix Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Phoenix, AZ
| | | | - Keith C Chan
- Phoenix Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Phoenix, AZ
| | | | - Peter D Reaven
- Phoenix Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Phoenix, AZ
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28
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Saba L, Agarwal N, Cau R, Gerosa C, Sanfilippo R, Porcu M, Montisci R, Cerrone G, Qi Y, Balestrieri A, Lucatelli P, Politi C, Faa G, Suri JS. Review of imaging biomarkers for the vulnerable carotid plaque. JVS Vasc Sci 2021; 2:149-158. [PMID: 34617065 PMCID: PMC8489200 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvssci.2021.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Identification of carotid artery atherosclerosis is conventionally based on measurements of luminal stenosis. However, histopathologic studies demonstrate considerable differences between plaques with identical degrees of stenosis and indicate that certain plaque features are associated with increased risk for ischemic events. As a result of the rapid technological evolution in medical imaging, several important steps have been taken in the field of carotid plaque imaging allowing us to visualize the carotid atherosclerotic plaque and its composition in great detail. For computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, and ultrasound scan, evidence has accumulated on novel imaging-based markers that confer information on carotid plaque vulnerability, such as intraplaque hemorrhage and lipid-rich necrotic cores. In terms of the imaging-based identification of individuals at high risk of stroke, routine assessments of such imaging markers are the way forward for improving current clinical practice. The current review highlights the main characteristics of the vulnerable plaque indicating their role in the etiology of ischemic stroke as identified by intensive plaque imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Saba
- Department of Radiology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Nivedita Agarwal
- Section of Radiology, Santa Maria del Carmine Hospital, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Riccardo Cau
- Department of Radiology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Clara Gerosa
- Department of Pathology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Sanfilippo
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Michele Porcu
- Department of Radiology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Montisci
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giulia Cerrone
- Department of Pathology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Yang Qi
- Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | | | - Pierleone Lucatelli
- Vascular and Interventional Unit, Department of Radiological Sciences, Policlinico Umberto I, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carola Politi
- Department of Radiology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Gavino Faa
- Department of Pathology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Jasjit S. Suri
- Stroke Diagnosis and Monitoring Division, AtheroPoint™, Roseville, Calif
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Shi Z, Zhao M, Li J, Meddings Z, Shi Y, Jiang T, Liu Q, Deng B, Lu J, Teng Z. Association of Hypertension With Both Occurrence and Outcome of Symptomatic Patients With Mild Intracranial Atherosclerotic Stenosis: A Prospective Higher Resolution Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study. J Magn Reson Imaging 2021; 54:76-88. [PMID: 33694230 PMCID: PMC8319792 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.27516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intracranial atherosclerotic plaque causing mild luminal stenosis might lead to acute ischemic events. However, the difference between culprit and nonculprit lesions is unclear, as are the factors associated with favorable treatment outcomes. Purpose To quantify characteristics of intracranial atherosclerosis with mild luminal stenosis and to identify factors associated with lesion type (culprit or nonculprit) and with clinical outcomes. Study Type Prospective Population 293 patients who had acute stroke with mild luminal stenosis (<50%) in the middle cerebral or basilar artery. Field Strength/Sequence 3.0 T higher resolution magnetic resonance imaging (hrMRI) of intracranial arteries and whole brain MR images. Assessment Morphological and compositional analysis of plaques was performed. This included assessment of plaque volume, plaque burden, remodeling ratio, eccentricity, intraplaque hemorrhage, and enhancement ratio. Clinical outcomes were assessed according to the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at day 90, with a favorable outcome being defined as a 90‐day mRS ≤2. Statistical Tests The odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated by a logistic regression model. Results Hypertension (OR 5.2; 95% CI 2.6–10.3; P < 0.05) and hrMRI enhancement ratio (OR 2.7; 95% CI 1.4–5.1; P < 0.05) were independently associated with lesion type. Patients without hypertension had significantly more (P < 0.05) favorable outcomes (124/144) than patients with hypertension (97/149). Most hypertensive patients without any previous blood pressure control (54/63) had a favorable outcome. However, these patients were significantly younger (P < 0.05) than those with adequate blood pressure control. After adjusting for all significant characteristics, hypertension duration (OR 1.19; 95% CI 1.09–1.29; P < 0.05), hypertension management (OR 2.49; 95% CI 1.18–5.26; P < 0.05), and enhancement ratio (OR 0.01; 95% CI 0.001–0.157; P < 0.05) were found to be independent high‐risk factors for outcome prediction. Data Conclusion hrMRI provided incremental value over traditional risk factors in identifying higher risk intracranial atherosclerosis with mild luminal stenosis. Level of Evidence 2 Technical Efficacy Stage 2
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhang Shi
- Department of Radiology, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Radiology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ming Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China.,The 983th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Forces of Chinese PLA, Tianjin, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Radiology, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Yibing Shi
- Department of Radiology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Radiology, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Department of Radiology, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Benqiang Deng
- Department of Neurology, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianping Lu
- Department of Radiology, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhongzhao Teng
- Department of Radiology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
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30
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Beddhu S, Boucher RE, Sun J, Balu N, Chonchol M, Navaneethan S, Chertow GM, Townsend R, Haley W, Cheung AK, Conroy MB, Raj DS, Xu D, George T, Yunis R, Wei G, Canton G, Bates J, Chen J, Papademetriou V, Punzi H, Wiggers A, Wright JT, Greene T, Yuan C. Chronic kidney disease, atherosclerotic plaque characteristics on carotid magnetic resonance imaging, and cardiovascular outcomes. BMC Nephrol 2021; 22:69. [PMID: 33627066 PMCID: PMC7905597 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-021-02260-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background It is unclear whether faster progression of atherosclerosis explains the higher risk of cardiovascular events in CKD. The objectives of this study were to 1. Characterize the associations of CKD with presence and morphology of atherosclerotic plaques on carotid magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 2. Examine the associations of baseline CKD and carotid atherosclerotic plaques with subsequent cardiovascular events. Methods In a subgroup (N = 465) of Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial. (SPRINT) participants, we measured carotid plaque presence and morphology at baseline and after 30-months with MRI. We examined the associations of CKD (baseline eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73m2) with progression of carotid plaques and the SPRINT cardiovascular endpoint. Results One hundred and ninety six (42%) participants had CKD. Baseline eGFR in the non-CKD and CKD subgroups were 77 ± 14 and 49 ± 8 ml/min/1.73 m2, respectively. Lipid rich necrotic-core plaque was present in 137 (29.5%) participants. In 323 participants with both baseline and follow-up MRI measurements of maximum wall thickness, CKD was not associated with progression of maximum wall thickness (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.36 to 1.07, p = 0.082). In 96 participants with necrotic core plaque at baseline and with a valid follow-up MRI, CKD was associated with lower odds of progression of necrotic core plaque (OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.95, p = 0.039). There were 28 cardiovascular events over 1764 person-years of follow-up. In separate Cox models, necrotic core plaque (HR 2.59, 95% CI 1.15 to 5.85) but not plaque defined by maximum wall thickness or presence of a plaque component (HR 1.79, 95% CI 0.73 to 4.43) was associated with cardiovascular events. Independent of necrotic core plaque, CKD (HR 3.35, 95% CI 1.40 to 7.99) was associated with cardiovascular events. Conclusions Presence of necrotic core in carotid plaque rather than the presence of plaque per se was associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events. We did not find CKD to be associated with faster progression of necrotic core plaques, although both were independently associated with cardiovascular events. Thus, CKD may contribute to cardiovascular disease principally via mechanisms other than atherosclerosis such as arterial media calcification or stiffening. Trial Registration NCT01475747, registered on November 21, 2011. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12882-021-02260-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinivasan Beddhu
- Medical Service, Veterans Affairs Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, USA. .,Division of Nephrology & Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, 85 North Medical Drive East, Room 201, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA.
| | - Robert E Boucher
- Division of Nephrology & Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, 85 North Medical Drive East, Room 201, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Jie Sun
- Department of Radiology, Vascular Imaging Lab, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Niranjan Balu
- Department of Radiology, Vascular Imaging Lab, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michel Chonchol
- Division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Sankar Navaneethan
- Section of Nephrology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Section of Nephrology, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Glenn M Chertow
- Division of Nephrology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Raymond Townsend
- Division of Nephrology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - William Haley
- Division of Nephrology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Alfred K Cheung
- Medical Service, Veterans Affairs Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, USA.,Division of Nephrology & Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, 85 North Medical Drive East, Room 201, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Molly B Conroy
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Dominic S Raj
- Division of Nephrology, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Dongxiang Xu
- Department of Radiology, Vascular Imaging Lab, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Thomas George
- Division of Nephrology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Reem Yunis
- Division of Nephrology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Guo Wei
- Division of Nephrology & Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, 85 North Medical Drive East, Room 201, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Gador Canton
- Department of Radiology, Vascular Imaging Lab, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jeffrey Bates
- Medical Care Line, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jing Chen
- Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | - Henry Punzi
- Department of Medicine & Clinical Research, Punzi Medical Center, Carrollton, TX, USA
| | - Alan Wiggers
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Jackson T Wright
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Tom Greene
- Division of Biostatistics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Chun Yuan
- Department of Radiology, Vascular Imaging Lab, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Evolving determinants of carotid atherosclerosis vulnerability in asymptomatic patients from the MAGNETIC observational study. Sci Rep 2021; 11:2327. [PMID: 33504842 PMCID: PMC7840938 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81247-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
MRI can assess plaque composition and has demonstrated an association between some atherosclerotic risk factors (RF) and markers of plaque vulnerability in naive patients. We aimed at investigating this association in medically treated asymptomatic patients. This is a cross-sectional interim analysis (August 2013-September 2016) of a single center prospective study on carotid plaque vulnerability (MAGNETIC study). We recruited patients with asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis (US stenosis > 30%, ECST criteria), receiving medical treatments at a tertiary cardiac rehabilitation. Atherosclerotic burden and plaque composition were quantified with 3.0 T MRI. The association between baseline characteristics and extent of lipid-rich necrotic core (LRNC), fibrous cap (CAP) and intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) was studied with multiple regression analysis. We enrolled 260 patients (198 male, 76%) with median age of 71-y (interquartile range: 65-76). Patients were on antiplatelet therapy, ACE-inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers and statins (196-229, 75-88%). Median LDL-cholesterol was 78 mg/dl (59-106), blood pressure 130/70 mmHg (111-140/65-80), glycosylated hemoglobin 46 mmol/mol (39-51) and BMI 25 kg/m2 (23-28); moreover, 125 out of 187 (67%) patients were ex-smokers. Multivariate analysis of a data-set of 487 (94%) carotid arteries showed that a history of hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, hypertension or smoking did not correlate with LRNC, CAP or IPH. Conversely, maximum stenosis was the strongest independent predictor of LRNC, CAP and IPH (p < 0.001). MRI assessment of plaque composition in patients on treatment for asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis shows no correlation between plaque vulnerability and the most well-controlled modifiable RF. Conversely, maximum stenosis exhibits a strong correlation with vulnerable features despite treatment.
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Carotid Artery Plaque Identification and Display System (MRI-CAPIDS) Using Opensource Tools. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:diagnostics10121111. [PMID: 33371362 PMCID: PMC7767364 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10121111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) represents one modality in atherosclerosis risk assessment, by permitting the classification of carotid plaques into either high- or low-risk lesions. Although MRI is generally used for observing the impact of atherosclerosis on vessel lumens, it can also show both the size and composition of itself, as well as plaque information, thereby providing information beyond that of simple stenosis. Software systems are a valuable aid in carotid artery stenosis assessment wherein commercial software is readily available but is not accessible to all practitioners because of its often high cost. This study focuses on the development of a software system designed entirely for registration, marking, and 3D visualization of the wall and lumen, using freely available open-source tools and libraries. It was designed to be free from “feature bloat” and avoid “feature-creep.” The image loading and display module of the modified QDCM library was improved by a minimum of 10,000%. A Bezier function was used in order to smoothen the curve of the polygon (referring to the shape formed by the marked points) by interpolating additional points between the marked points. This smoother curve led to a smoother 3D view of the lumen and wall.
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33
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Tornifoglio B, Stone AJ, Johnston RD, Shahid SS, Kerskens C, Lally C. Diffusion tensor imaging and arterial tissue: establishing the influence of arterial tissue microstructure on fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity and tractography. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20718. [PMID: 33244026 PMCID: PMC7693170 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77675-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigates diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) for providing microstructural insight into changes in arterial tissue by exploring how cell, collagen and elastin content effect fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD) and tractography. Five ex vivo porcine carotid artery models (n = 6 each) were compared-native, fixed native, collagen degraded, elastin degraded and decellularised. Vessels were imaged at 7 T using a DTI protocol with b = 0 and 800 s/mm2 and 10 isotopically distributed directions. FA and MD were evaluated in the vessel media and compared across models. FA values measured in native (p < 0.0001), fixed native (p < 0.0001) and collagen degraded (p = 0.0018, p = 0.0016, respectively) were significantly higher than those in elastin degraded and decellularised arteries. Native and fixed native had significantly lower MD values than elastin degraded (p < 0.0001) and decellularised tissue (p = 0.0032, p = 0.0003, respectively). Significantly lower MD was measured in collagen degraded compared with the elastin degraded model (p = 0.0001). Tractography yielded helically arranged tracts for native and collagen degraded vessels only. FA, MD and tractography were found to be highly sensitive to changes in the microstructural composition of arterial tissue, specifically pointing to cell, not collagen, content as the dominant source of the measured anisotropy in the vessel wall.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Tornifoglio
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - A J Stone
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - R D Johnston
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - S S Shahid
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - C Kerskens
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - C Lally
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
- Advanced Materials and Bioengineering Research Centre (AMBER), Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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Kassem M, Florea A, Mottaghy FM, van Oostenbrugge R, Kooi ME. Magnetic resonance imaging of carotid plaques: current status and clinical perspectives. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 8:1266. [PMID: 33178798 PMCID: PMC7607136 DOI: 10.21037/atm-2020-cass-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Rupture of a vulnerable carotid plaque is one of the leading causes of stroke. Carotid magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is able to visualize all the main hallmarks of plaque vulnerability. Various MRI sequences have been developed in the last two decades to quantify carotid plaque burden and composition. Often, a combination of multiple sequences is used. These MRI techniques have been extensively validated with histological analysis of carotid endarterectomy specimens. High agreement between the MRI and histological measures of plaque burden, intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH), lipid-rich necrotic core (LRNC), fibrous cap (FC) status, inflammation and neovascularization has been demonstrated. Novel MRI sequences allow to generate three-dimensional isotropic images with a large longitudinal coverage. Other new sequences can acquire multiple contrasts using a single sequence leading to a tremendous reduction in scan time. IPH can be easily identified as a hyperintense signal in the bulk of the plaque on strongly T1-weighted images, such as magnetization-prepared rapid acquisition gradient echo images, acquired within a few minutes with a standard neurovascular coil. Carotid MRI can also be used to evaluate treatment effects. Several meta-analyses have demonstrated a strong predictive value of IPH, LRNC, thinning or rupture of the FC for ischemic cerebrovascular events. Recently, in a large meta-analysis based on individual patient data of asymptomatic and symptomatic individuals with carotid artery stenosis, it was shown that IPH on MRI is an independent risk predictor for stroke, stronger than any known clinical risk parameter. Expert recommendations on carotid plaque MRI protocols have recently been described in a white paper. The present review provides an overview of the current status and applications of carotid plaque MR imaging and its future potential in daily clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Kassem
- CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Alexandru Florea
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Felix M Mottaghy
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Robert van Oostenbrugge
- CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, MUMC+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - M Eline Kooi
- CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
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35
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Sun Y, Xu L, Jiang Y, Ma M, Wang XY, Xing Y. Significance of high resolution MRI in the identification of carotid plaque. Exp Ther Med 2020; 20:3653-3660. [PMID: 32855717 PMCID: PMC7444342 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.9091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The stability of carotid artery plaque serves a key role in the occurrence of stroke. The present study was based on the recruitment of patients with acute ischemic cerebrovascular disease. High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HR-MRI) was used to identify the nature of carotid artery plaque, and the results were then used to manage the high-risk group of stroke. The patients were divided equally into a symptomatic group (36 cases) and an asymptomatic group (36 cases). According to the degree of carotid artery stenosis, the patients were divided into mild, moderate and severe stenosis groups, each group comprising 12 patients, and HR-MRI was performed. The proportion of patients with vulnerable plaque in the symptomatic group was higher compared with that in the asymptomatic group (P<0.05). The more severe the stenosis, the higher the proportion of vulnerable plaque that was identified (P<0.05). Compared with carotid ultrasound, HR-MRI was indicated to have the capability to both identify and quantify the different components in the plaque, allowing an assessment of its properties. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that carotid HR-MRI is able to distinguish and quantify the different components of plaque, which may prove to be helpful for the hierarchical management of a population at high risk of stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Sun
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130033, P.R. China
| | - Lei Xu
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130033, P.R. China
| | - Yan Jiang
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130033, P.R. China
| | - Ming Ma
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130033, P.R. China
| | - Xin-Yi Wang
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130033, P.R. China
| | - Ying Xing
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130033, P.R. China
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Lisický O, Malá A, Bednařík Z, Novotný T, Burša J. Consideration of stiffness of wall layers is decisive for patient-specific analysis of carotid artery with atheroma. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0239447. [PMID: 32991605 PMCID: PMC7523976 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The paper deals with the impact of chosen geometric and material factors on maximal stresses in carotid atherosclerotic plaque calculated using patient-specific finite element models. These stresses are believed to be decisive for the plaque vulnerability but all applied models suffer from inaccuracy of input data, especially when obtained in vivo only. One hundred computational models based on ex vivo MRI are used to investigate the impact of wall thickness, MRI slice thickness, lipid core and fibrous tissue stiffness, and media anisotropy on the calculated peak plaque and peak cap stresses. The investigated factors are taken as continuous in the range based on published experimental results, only the impact of anisotropy is evaluated by comparison with a corresponding isotropic model. Design of Experiment concept is applied to assess the statistical significance of these investigated factors representing uncertainties in the input data of the model. The results show that consideration of realistic properties of arterial wall in the model is decisive for the stress evaluation; assignment of properties of fibrous tissue even to media and adventitia layers as done in some studies may induce up to eightfold overestimation of peak stress. The impact of MRI slice thickness may play a key role when local thin fibrous cap is present. Anisotropy of media layer is insignificant, and the stiffness of fibrous tissue and lipid core may become significant in some combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ondřej Lisický
- Institute of Solid Mechanics, Mechatronics and Biomechanics, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
- * E-mail:
| | - Aneta Malá
- Institute of Scientific Instruments, The Czech Academy of Science, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Zdeněk Bednařík
- 1st Department of Pathology, St. Anne’s University Hospital Brno and Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Novotný
- 2nd Department of Surgery, St. Anne’s University Hospital Brno and Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Burša
- Institute of Solid Mechanics, Mechatronics and Biomechanics, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
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Watase H, Shen M, Sui B, Gao P, Zhang D, Sun J, Balu N, Hippe DS, Jarvik GP, Zhao X, Li R, Chen S, Yuan C, Hatsukami TS. Differences in atheroma between Caucasian and Asian subjects with anterior stroke: A vessel wall MRI study. Stroke Vasc Neurol 2020; 6:25-32. [PMID: 32792458 PMCID: PMC8005910 DOI: 10.1136/svn-2020-000370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose While extracranial carotid artery stenosis is more common among Caucasians and intracranial artery stenosis is more common among Asians, the differences in atherosclerotic plaque characteristics have not yet been extensively examined. We sought to investigate plaque location and characteristics within extracranial carotid and intracranial arteries in symptomatic Caucasians and Chinese using vessel wall MRI. Methods Subjects with recent anterior circulation ischaemic stroke were recruited and imaged at two sites in the USA and China using similar protocols. Both extracranial carotid and intracranial arteries were reviewed to determine plaque location and characteristics. Results The prevalence of extracranial carotid plaque in Caucasians and Chinese was 73.1% and 49.1%, respectively (p=0.055). Prevalence of intracranial plaque was 38.5% and 69.1% in Caucasians and Chinese, respectively (p=0.02). Furthermore, 42% of Caucasians and 16% of Chinese had high-risk plaque (HRP) features (intraplaque haemorrhage, luminal surface disruption) in the extracranial carotid artery (p=0.03). The prevalence of HRP features in intracranial arteries was not significantly different between the two cohorts (4% vs 11%; p=0.42). Conclusions Differences in the location and characteristics of cerebrovascular atherosclerosis were identified by vessel wall MRI in US Caucasian and Chinese subjects with recent anterior circulation ischaemic stroke. Extracranial carotid plaques with HRP features were more common in Caucasians. Intracranial plaques were more common in Chinese subjects, but no significant difference between the two cohorts in intracranial HRP prevalence was found. Larger studies using vessel wall imaging to investigate racial differences in cerebrovascular disease may inform underlying mechanisms of HRP development and may ultimately help guide appropriate therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Watase
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Mi Shen
- Department of Radiology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Binbin Sui
- Tiantan Neuroimaging Center for Excellence, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Peiyi Gao
- Department of Radiology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Dong Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Sun
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Niranjan Balu
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Daniel S Hippe
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Gail P Jarvik
- Department Medicine (Medical Genetics) and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Xihai Zhao
- Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Li
- Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuo Chen
- Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Chun Yuan
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Thomas S Hatsukami
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Wang T, Luo J, Wang X, Yang K, Jadhav V, Gao P, Ma Y, Zhao N, Jiao L. Endovascular therapy versus medical treatment for symptomatic intracranial artery stenosis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 8:CD013267. [PMID: 32789891 PMCID: PMC7437396 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013267.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS) is an arterial narrowing in the brain that can cause stroke. Endovascular therapy and medical management may be used to prevent recurrent ischaemic stroke caused by ICAS. However, there is no consensus on the best treatment for people with ICAS. OBJECTIVES To compare the safety and efficacy of endovascular therapy (ET) plus conventional medical treatment (CMT) with CMT alone for the management of symptomatic ICAS. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register (30 August 2019), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL: to 30 August 2019), MEDLINE Ovid (1946 to 30 August 2019), Embase Ovid (1974 to 30 August 2019), Scopus (1960 to 30 August 2019), Science Citation Index Web of Science (1900 to 30 July 2019), Academic Source Complete EBSCO (ASC: 1982 to 30 July 2019), and China Biological Medicine Database (CBM: 1978 to 30 July 2019). We also searched the following trial registers: ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and Stroke Trials Registry. We also contacted trialists and researchers where additional information was required. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing ET plus CMT with CMT alone for the treatment of symptomatic ICAS. ET modalities included angioplasty alone, balloon-mounted stent, and angioplasty followed by placement of a self-expanding stent. CMT included antiplatelet therapy in addition to control of risk factors such as hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, and diabetes. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently screened trials to select potentially eligible RCTs and extracted data. Any disagreements were resolved by discussing and reaching consensus decisions with the full team. We assessed risk of bias and applied the GRADE approach to assess the quality of the evidence. The primary outcome was death of any cause or non-fatal stroke of any type within three months of randomisation. Secondary outcomes included any-cause death or non-fatal stroke of any type more than three months of randomisation, ipsilateral stroke, type of recurrent event, death, restenosis, dependency, and health-related quality of life. MAIN RESULTS We included three RCTs with 632 participants who had symptomatic ICAS with an age range of 18 to 85 years. The included trials had high risks of performance bias and other potential sources of bias due to the impossibility of blinding of the endovascular intervention and early termination of the trials. Moreover, one trial had a high risk of attrition bias because of the high rate of loss of one-year follow-up and the high proportion of participants transferred from endovascular therapy to medical management. The quality of evidence ranged from low to moderate, downgraded for imprecision. Compared to CMT, ET probably results in a higher rate of 30-day death or stroke (risk ratio (RR) 3.07, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.80 to 5.24; 3 RCTs, 632 participants, moderate-quality evidence), 30-day ipsilateral stroke (RR 3.54, 95% CI 1.98 to 6.33; 3 RCTs, 632 participants, moderate-quality evidence), 30-day ischaemic stroke (RR 2.52, 95% CI 1.37 to 4.62; 3 RCTs, 632 participants, moderate-quality evidence), and 30-day haemorrhagic stroke (RR 15.53, 95% CI 2.10 to 115.16; 3 RCTs, 632 participants, low-quality evidence). ET was also likely associated with a worse outcome in one-year death or stroke (RR 1.69, 95% CI 1.21 to 2.36; 3 RCTs, 632 participants, moderate-quality evidence), one-year ipsilateral stroke (RR 2.28, 95% CI 1.52 to 3.42; 3 RCTs, 632 participants, moderate-quality evidence), one-year ischaemic stroke (RR 2.07, 95% CI 1.37 to 3.13; 3 RCTs, 632 participants, moderate-quality evidence), and one-year haemorrhagic stroke (RR 10.13, 95% CI 1.31 to 78.51; 2 RCTs, 521 participants, low-quality evidence). There were no significant differences between ET and CMT in 30-day transient ischaemic attacks (TIA) (RR 0.52, 95% CI 0.11 to 2.35, P = 0.39; 2 RCTs, 181 participants, moderate-quality evidence), 30-day death (RR 5.53, 95% CI 0.98 to 31.17, P = 0.05; 3 RCTs, 632 participants, low-quality evidence), one-year TIA (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.32 to 2.12; 2 RCTs, 181 participants, moderate-quality evidence), one-year death (RR 1.20, 95% CI 0.50 to 2.86, P = 0.68; 3 RCTs, 632 participants, moderate-quality evidence), and one-year dependency (RR 1.90, 95% CI 0.91 to 3.97, P = 0.09; 3 RCTs, 613 participants, moderate-quality evidence). No data on restenosis and health-related quality of life for meta-analysis were available from the included trials. Two RCTs are ongoing. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This systematic review provides moderate-quality evidence showing that ET, compared with CMT, in people with recent symptomatic severe intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis probably does not prevent recurrent stroke and appears to carry an increased hazard. The impact of delayed ET intervention (more than three weeks after a qualifying event) is unclear and may warrant further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jichang Luo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xue Wang
- Medical Library of Xuanwu Hospital, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Kun Yang
- Department of Evidence-based Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Vikram Jadhav
- Neurosciences, Essentia Health, St Mary's Medical Center, Duluth, Minnesota, USA
- Neurosciences, Stroke and Cerebrovascular, CentraCare Health System, St Cloud, Minnesota, USA
| | - Peng Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Na Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Liqun Jiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Porcu M, Mannelli L, Melis M, Suri JS, Gerosa C, Cerrone G, Defazio G, Faa G, Saba L. Carotid plaque imaging profiling in subjects with risk factors (diabetes and hypertension). Cardiovasc Diagn Ther 2020; 10:1005-1018. [PMID: 32968657 DOI: 10.21037/cdt.2020.01.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Carotid artery stenosis (CAS) due to the presence of atherosclerotic plaque (AP) is a frequent medical condition and a known risk factor for stroke, and it is also known from literature that several risk factors promote the AP development, in particular aging, smoke, male sex, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, smoke, diabetes type 1 and 2, and genetic factors. The study of carotid atherosclerosis is continuously evolving: even if the strategies of treatment still depends mainly on the degree of stenosis (DoS) determined by the plaque, in the last years the attention has moved to the study of the plaque components in order to identify the so called "vulnerable" plaque: features like the fibrous cap status and thickness, the volume of the lipid-rich necrotic core and the presence of intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) are risk factors for plaque rupture, that can be studied with modern imaging techniques. The aim of this review is to give a general overview of the principle histological and imaging features of the subcomponent of carotid AP (CAP), focalizing in particular on the features of CAP of patients affected by hypertension and diabetes (in particular type 2 diabetes mellitus).
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Porcu
- Department of Radiology, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Marta Melis
- Department of Neurology, AOU of Cagliari, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Jasjit S Suri
- Diagnostic and Monitoring Division, AtheroPoint, Roseville, California, USA
| | - Clara Gerosa
- Department of Pathology, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giulia Cerrone
- Department of Pathology, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Defazio
- Department of Neurology, AOU of Cagliari, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Gavino Faa
- Department of Pathology, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luca Saba
- Department of Radiology, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, Italy
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40
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Zhu G, Hom J, Li Y, Jiang B, Rodriguez F, Fleischmann D, Saloner D, Porcu M, Zhang Y, Saba L, Wintermark M. Carotid plaque imaging and the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Cardiovasc Diagn Ther 2020; 10:1048-1067. [PMID: 32968660 DOI: 10.21037/cdt.2020.03.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Carotid artery plaque is a measure of atherosclerosis and is associated with future risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), which encompasses coronary, cerebrovascular, and peripheral arterial diseases. With advanced imaging techniques, computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have shown their potential superiority to routine ultrasound to detect features of carotid plaque vulnerability, such as intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH), lipid-rich necrotic core (LRNC), fibrous cap (FC), and calcification. The correlation between imaging features and histological changes of carotid plaques has been investigated. Imaging of carotid features has been used to predict the risk of cardiovascular events. Other techniques such as nuclear imaging and intra-vascular ultrasound (IVUS) have also been proposed to better understand the vulnerable carotid plaque features. In this article, we review the studies of imaging specific carotid plaque components and their correlation with risk scores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangming Zhu
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology Section, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Jason Hom
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology Section, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA.,Clinical Medical Research Center, Luye Pharma Group Ltd., Beijing 100000, China
| | - Bin Jiang
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology Section, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Fatima Rodriguez
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine and the Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Dominik Fleischmann
- Department of Radiology, Cardiovascular Imaging Section, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - David Saloner
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Michele Porcu
- Dipartimento di Radiologia, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Yanrong Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology Section, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Luca Saba
- Dipartimento di Radiologia, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Max Wintermark
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology Section, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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41
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Abstract
Current risk stratification for stroke is still based upon percentage of carotid stenosis, despite this measure providing minimal patient-specific information on the actual risk of stroke for both symptomatic individuals without significant carotid artery stenosis as well as asymptomatic carotid stenosis patients. A continuously growing body of literature suggests that the identification and quantification of certain carotid plaque characteristics, including lipid-rich necrotic core (LRNC), thin/ruptured fibrous cap (FC), and intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH), provide a superior means of predicting future stroke. These characteristics are identifiable via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), with most features detectable using commercially available coils and sequences utilized in routine clinical practice in as little as 4 minutes. The presence of LRNC, a thin/ruptured FC, and IPH is associated with increased risk of future stroke or TIA. Plaques with greater than 40% LRNC with a thin overlying FC are prone to rupture. LRNC is T2 hypointense and lacks enhancement on contrast enhanced T1 weighted images. Increasing LRNC size is associated with the development of new ulceration, FC rupture, increasing plaque burden, as well as fatal and nonfatal myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, hospitalization for acute coronary syndrome (ACS), and symptom-driven revascularization, allowing for MR biomarkers of carotid plaque vulnerability to be utilized for systemic athero-thrombotic risk and not just stroke/TIA. LRNC typically shrinks with appropriate statin therapy, with PCSK9 inhibitors possibly playing a role in patients with inadequate response. Carotid plaques with IPH represent a more advanced stage of atherosclerotic disease. IPH is detectable with field strengths of both 3.0 T and 1.5 T and will demonstrate high signal on all T1 weighted imaging sequences. The presence of IPH increases the risk of future stroke in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients, with multivariate analysis identifying IPH as a predictor of stroke, independent of percent stenosis, with no statistical difference in men vs. women, demonstrating that simple carotid stenosis measurements and traditional risk factor analysis may be inadequate in identifying patients at the highest risk for adverse cerebrovascular events. In the evaluation for recurrent stroke in recently symptomatic patients with >50% carotid stenosis, the estimated annual stroke risk is 23.2% in IPH+ patients and only 0.6% in IPH- patients, calling into question the current risk-benefit assessment for CEA. Additionally, a recent meta-analysis suggests that IPH+ plaque in patients with symptomatic <50% stenosis may be the etiology of embolic strokes previously labeled as "embolic stroke of undetermined source" (ESUS). There are no prospective drug trials testing the ability of any lipid-lowering therapies to decrease IPH and/or total plaque volume (TPV). Given the continuously increasing evidence of IPH as a significant predictor of carotid plaque progression and future adverse vascular events, trials aimed at targeted therapy for IPH represents a significant need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael E Porambo
- Department of Radiology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - J Kevin DeMarco
- Department of Radiology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Department of Radiology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
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42
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Aizaz M, Moonen RPM, van der Pol JAJ, Prieto C, Botnar RM, Kooi ME. PET/MRI of atherosclerosis. Cardiovasc Diagn Ther 2020; 10:1120-1139. [PMID: 32968664 DOI: 10.21037/cdt.2020.02.09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Myocardial infarction and stroke are the most prevalent global causes of death. Each year 15 million people worldwide die due to myocardial infarction or stroke. Rupture of a vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque is the main underlying cause of stroke and myocardial infarction. Key features of a vulnerable plaque are inflammation, a large lipid-rich necrotic core (LRNC) with a thin or ruptured overlying fibrous cap, and intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH). Noninvasive imaging of these features could have a role in risk stratification of myocardial infarction and stroke and can potentially be utilized for treatment guidance and monitoring. The recent development of hybrid PET/MRI combining the superior soft tissue contrast of MRI with the opportunity to visualize specific plaque features using various radioactive tracers, paves the way for comprehensive plaque imaging. In this review, the use of hybrid PET/MRI for atherosclerotic plaque imaging in carotid and coronary arteries is discussed. The pros and cons of different hybrid PET/MRI systems are reviewed. The challenges in the development of PET/MRI and potential solutions are described. An overview of PET and MRI acquisition techniques for imaging of atherosclerosis including motion correction is provided, followed by a summary of vessel wall imaging PET/MRI studies in patients with carotid and coronary artery disease. Finally, the future of imaging of atherosclerosis with PET/MRI is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mueez Aizaz
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rik P M Moonen
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jochem A J van der Pol
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Claudia Prieto
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK.,Escuela de Ingenieria, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - René M Botnar
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK.,Escuela de Ingenieria, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - M Eline Kooi
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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43
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Yoshida K, Miyamoto S. Stratification by Multidimensional Approach for Rational Treatment of Asymptomatic Carotid Stenosis (SMART-K Study): Study Protocol. Neurol Med Chir (Tokyo) 2020; 60:10-16. [PMID: 31708514 PMCID: PMC6970068 DOI: 10.2176/nmc.st.2019-0188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
With recent advances in medical treatments for carotid artery stenosis (CS), indications for carotid surgery should be more carefully considered for asymptomatic CS (ACS). Accurate stratification of ACS should be based on the risk of cerebral infarction, and subgroups of patients more likely to benefit from surgical treatment should be differentiated. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers a non-invasive, accurate modality for characterizing carotid plaque. Intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) seems the most promising feature of vulnerable plaque detectable by MRI. Lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) is a type II membrane protein of the C-type lectin family with an extracellular domain that can be proteolytically cleaved and released as a soluble form (sLOX-1). This sLOX-1 plays a key role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, and elevated sLOX-1 concentrations correlate with thin or ruptured fibrous caps in patients with acute coronary syndrome. This ongoing study aims to clarify the incidence of ischemic stroke in patients with ACS and IPH confirmed by MRI, and to assess whether sLOX-1 could provide a biomarker for risk of future ischemic events. The study population comprises patients with ACS (>60% area stenosis) associated with MRI-diagnosed IPH receiving follow-up under medical treatment. Primary endpoints comprise transient ischemic attack, stroke or amaurosis resulting from concerned CS. Secondary endpoints comprise any stroke or surgical treatment for progressive luminal stenosis. The target number of patients is 120 and the observational period is 36 months. The study results could help identify individuals with ACS who are refractory to medical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazumichi Yoshida
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Susumu Miyamoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine
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44
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Li J, Li D, Yang D, Hang H, Wu Y, Yao R, Chen X, Xu Y, Dai W, Zhou D, Zhao X. Irregularity of Carotid Plaque Surface Predicts Subsequent Vascular Event: A MRI Study. J Magn Reson Imaging 2020; 52:185-194. [PMID: 31944452 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.27038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Li
- Department of RadiologyThe Affiliated BenQ Hospital of Nanjing Medical University Nanjing China
| | - Dongye Li
- Department of Radiology, Sun Yat‐Sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐Sen University Guangzhou China
| | - Dandan Yang
- Beijing Institute of Brain DisordersCapital Medical University Beijing China
| | - Hailun Hang
- Department of NeurologyNanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University Nanjing China
| | - Yawei Wu
- Department of Radiology, Clinical Medical CollegeYangzhou University Yangzhou China
| | - Rong Yao
- Department of RadiologyThe Affiliated BenQ Hospital of Nanjing Medical University Nanjing China
| | - Xiaoyi Chen
- Department of RadiologyBeijing Geriatric Hospital Beijing China
| | - Yilan Xu
- Department of Radiology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical MedicineTsinghua University Beijing China
| | - Wei Dai
- Department of NeurologyFourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital Beijing China
| | - Dan Zhou
- Department of RadiologyThe Affiliated BenQ Hospital of Nanjing Medical University Nanjing China
| | - Xihai Zhao
- Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Department of Biomedical EngineeringTsinghua University School of Medicine Beijing China
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45
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Syed MBJ, Fletcher AJ, Forsythe RO, Kaczynski J, Newby DE, Dweck MR, van Beek EJR. Emerging techniques in atherosclerosis imaging. Br J Radiol 2019; 92:20180309. [PMID: 31502858 PMCID: PMC6849665 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20180309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic immunomodulated disease that affects multiple vascular beds and results in a significant worldwide disease burden. Conventional imaging modalities focus on the morphological features of atherosclerotic disease such as the degree of stenosis caused by a lesion. Modern CT, MR and positron emission tomography scanners have seen significant improvements in the rapidity of image acquisition and spatial resolution. This has increased the scope for the clinical application of these modalities. Multimodality imaging can improve cardiovascular risk prediction by informing on the constituency and metabolic processes within the vessel wall. Specific disease processes can be targeted using novel biological tracers and "smart" contrast agents. These approaches have the potential to inform clinicians of the metabolic state of atherosclerotic plaque. This review will provide an overview of current imaging techniques for the imaging of atherosclerosis and how various modalities can provide information that enhances the depiction of basic morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maaz BJ Syed
- British Heart Foundation Centre of Cardiovascular Science
| | | | | | | | | | - Marc R Dweck
- British Heart Foundation Centre of Cardiovascular Science
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46
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Neumann S, Milano EG, Bucciarelli-Ducci C, Biglino G. Imaging the carotid atherosclerotic plaque. VASCULAR BIOLOGY (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2019; 1:H53-H58. [PMID: 32923954 PMCID: PMC7439847 DOI: 10.1530/vb-19-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
This mini review provides a concise overview of imaging techniques that are currently used to image the atheroscletoric plaque in the carotid artery in vivo. The main techniques include ultrasound imaging, X-ray imaging, magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography imaging. Each technique has advantages and limitations and may be chosen depending on the availability, cost and clinical justification for its use. Common to all the imaging techniques presented here is the need for a skilled imaging professional to allow for high reliability and repeatability. While ultrasound-based imaging currently is regarded as a first line technique in clinical practice, the use of other techniques such as computed tomography angiography or magnetic resonance angiography need to be considered in the presence of significant stenosis with or without symptoms. Advancements in these two modalities, as well as in positron emission tomography imaging, are increasingly moving toward a better understanding of the risk-stratification and pre-interventional monitoring of patients at risk of plaque rupture as well as early identification of plaque development and better understanding of plaque composition (e.g. metabolic imaging).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Neumann
- Research and Imaging Centre (CRIC) Bristol, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Elena G Milano
- UCL Institute of Cardiovascular Science and Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Paediatrics and Gynaecology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Bucciarelli-Ducci
- Research and Imaging Centre (CRIC) Bristol, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- University Hospitals Bristol, NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Giovanni Biglino
- Research and Imaging Centre (CRIC) Bristol, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Paediatrics and Gynaecology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- University Hospitals Bristol, NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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47
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Tavakoli S. Technical considerations for quantification of 18F-FDG uptake in carotid atherosclerosis. J Nucl Cardiol 2019; 26:894-898. [PMID: 29150750 DOI: 10.1007/s12350-017-1060-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sina Tavakoli
- Departments of Radiology and Medicine (Vascular Medicine Institute), University of Pittsburgh, UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, 200 Lothrop Street, Suite E200, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
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48
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Li X, Yu W, Wollenweber T, Lu X, Wei Y, Beitzke D, Wadsak W, Kropf S, Wester HJ, Haug AR, Zhang X, Hacker M. [ 68Ga]Pentixafor PET/MR imaging of chemokine receptor 4 expression in the human carotid artery. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2019; 46:1616-1625. [PMID: 31004184 PMCID: PMC6584241 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-019-04322-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Type 4 chemokine receptor (CXCR4) plays an important role in immune cell migration during the atherosclerosis progression. We aimed to evaluate [68Ga]Pentixafor positron emission tomography (PET) in combination magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for in vivo quantification of CXCR4 expression in carotid plaques. Methods Seventy-two patients with lymphoma were prospectively scheduled for whole body [68Ga]Pentixafor PET/MRI with an additional T2-weighted carotid sequence. Volumes of interest (VOIs) were drawn along the carotid bifurcation regions, and the maximum tissue-to-blood ratios (TBR) of [68Ga]Pentixafor uptake were calculated. Lesions were categorized into non-eccentric (n = 27), mild eccentric (n = 67), moderately (n = 41) and severely (n = 19) eccentric carotid atherosclerosis. A different cohort of symptomatic patients (n = 10) with carotid stenosis scheduled for thrombendarterectomy (TEA) was separately imaged with 3T MRI with dedicated plaque sequences (time of flight, T1-, and T2-weighted). MRI findings were correlated with histochemical assessment of intact carotid plaques. Results At hybrid PET/MRI, we observed significantly increased [68Ga]Pentixafor uptake in mildly (mean TBRmax = 1.57 ± 0.27, mean SUVmax = 2.51 ± 0.39), moderately (mean TBRmax = 1.64 ± 0.37, mean SUVmax = 2.61 ± 0.55) and severely eccentric carotids (mean TBRmax = 1.55 ± 0.26, mean SUVmax = 2.40 ± 0.44) as compared to non-eccentric carotids (mean TBRmax = 1.29 ± 0.21, mean SUVmax = 1.77 ± 0.42) (p ≤ 0.05). Histological findings from TEA confirmed that prominent CXCR4 expression was localized within inflamed atheromas and preatheromas. Co-localization of cellular CXCR4 and CD68 expression in the plaque was observed by immunofluorescence staining. Conclusions In vivo evaluation of CXCR4 expression in carotid atherosclerotic lesions is feasible using [68Ga]Pentixafor PET/MRI. In atherosclerotic plaque tissue, CXCR4 expression might be used as a surrogate marker for inflammatory atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wei Yu
- Department of Radiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Tim Wollenweber
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Xia Lu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Anzhen Street No. 2, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yongxiang Wei
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Anzhen Street No. 2, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Dietrich Beitzke
- Division of Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Wadsak
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,Center for Biomarker Research in Medicine, CBmed, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Hans J Wester
- Department of Radiopharmaceutical Chemistry, Technische Universität München, Garching, Germany
| | - Alexander R Haug
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Xiaoli Zhang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Anzhen Street No. 2, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Marcus Hacker
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
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49
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Wang T, Yang K, Wang X, Luo J, Gao P, Ma Y, Jadhav V, Zhao N, Jiao L. Endovascular therapy versus medical treatment for symptomatic intracranial artery stenosis. Hippokratia 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University; Department of Neurosurgery; No. 45 Changchun Street Beijing China 100053
| | - Kun Yang
- Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University; Department of Evidence-based Medicine; No. 45 Changchun Street Beijing China 100053
| | - Xue Wang
- Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University; Medical Library of Xuanwu Hospital; No. 45 Changchun Street Beijing China 100053
| | - Jichang Luo
- Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University; Department of Neurosurgery; No. 45 Changchun Street Beijing China 100053
| | - Peng Gao
- Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University; Department of Neurosurgery; No. 45 Changchun Street Beijing China 100053
| | - Yan Ma
- Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University; Department of Neurosurgery; No. 45 Changchun Street Beijing China 100053
| | - Vikram Jadhav
- CentraCare Health System; Neurosciences - Stroke and Cerebrovascular; 1406 Sixth Ave North St Cloud Minnesota USA
| | - Na Zhao
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University; Department of Anesthesiology; Beijing China
| | - Liqun Jiao
- Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University; Department of Neurosurgery; No. 45 Changchun Street Beijing China 100053
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50
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Kashiwazaki D, Shiraishi K, Yamamoto S, Kamo T, Uchino H, Saito H, Akioka N, Kuwayama N, Noguchi K, Kuroda S. Efficacy of Carotid Endarterectomy for Mild (<50%) Symptomatic Carotid Stenosis with Unstable Plaque. World Neurosurg 2019; 121:e60-e69. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2018.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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