1
|
Saba L, Cau R, Spinato G, Suri JS, Melis M, De Rubeis G, Antignani P, Gupta A. Carotid stenosis and cryptogenic stroke. J Vasc Surg 2024; 79:1119-1131. [PMID: 38190926 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvs.2024.01.004] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cryptogenic stroke represents a type of ischemic stroke with an unknown origin, presenting a significant challenge in both stroke management and prevention. According to the Trial of Org 10,172 in Acute Stroke Treatment criteria, a stroke is categorized as being caused by large artery atherosclerosis only when there is >50% luminal narrowing of the ipsilateral internal carotid artery. However, nonstenosing carotid artery plaques can be an underlying cause of ischemic stroke. Indeed, emerging evidence documents that some features of plaque vulnerability may act as an independent risk factor, regardless of the degree of stenosis, in precipitating cerebrovascular events. This review, drawing from an array of imaging-based studies, explores the predictive values of carotid imaging modalities in the detection of nonstenosing carotid plaque (<50%), that could be the cause of a cerebrovascular event when some features of vulnerability are present. METHODS Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed were searched for articles on cryptogenic stroke and those reporting the association between cryptogenic stroke and imaging features of carotid plaque vulnerability. RESULTS Despite extensive diagnostic evaluations, the etiology of a considerable proportion of strokes remains undetermined, contributing to the recurrence rate and persistent morbidity in affected individuals. Advances in imaging modalities, such as magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography scans, and ultrasound examination, facilitate more accurate detection of nonstenosing carotid artery plaque and allow better stratification of stroke risk, leading to a more tailored treatment strategy. CONCLUSIONS Early detection of nonstenosing carotid plaque with features of vulnerability through carotid imaging techniques impacts the clinical management of cryptogenic stroke, resulting in refined stroke subtype classification and improved patient management. Additional research is required to validate these findings and recommend the integration of these state-of-the-art imaging methodologies into standard diagnostic protocols to improve stroke management and prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Saba
- Department of Radiology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria (A.O.U.), Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Riccardo Cau
- Department of Radiology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria (A.O.U.), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giacomo Spinato
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of Otolaryngology and Regional Centre for Head and Neck Cancer, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
| | - Jasjit S Suri
- Stroke Monitoring and Diagnostic Division, AtheroPoint™, Roseville, CA
| | - Marta Melis
- Department of Neurology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria (A.O.U.), Cagliari, Italy
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Jardinet T. Peripheral Artery Disease: Why Do We Need CT Imaging? J Belg Soc Radiol 2024; 108:40. [PMID: 38826681 PMCID: PMC11141513 DOI: 10.5334/jbsr.3385] [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: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The most common cause of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is atherosclerosis. PAD can be considered a global pandemic, as it affected a quarter billion people worldwide in 2013 [1]. The prevalence and complexity of the disease is increasing due to aging populations and the rise in risk factors including diabetes and kidney disease.
Collapse
|
3
|
Squizzato F, Antonello M, Modena M, Forcella E, Colacchio EC, Grego F, Piazza M. Fate of primary determinate and indeterminate target vessel endoleaks after fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair. J Vasc Surg 2024; 79:207-216.e4. [PMID: 37804955 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvs.2023.09.036] [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: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the outcomes of primary determinate and indeterminate target vessel endoleaks (TVELs) after fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair (F-BEVAR). METHODS We conducted a single-center retrospective study (2014-2023) on F-BEVAR for thoracoabdominal (TAAAs) or pararenal aortic aneurysms (PRAAs). TVELs were classified as "primary" if present at the first postoperative computed tomography angiogram. Endoleaks were defined "determinate" (dELs) if the cause (type Ic or IIIc) and implicated target vessel were identifiable and "indeterminate" (iELs) if contrast enhancement was detectable at the level of fenestrations/branches without any evident source. Endoleaks involving multiple inflows (type II and target vessels) were defined as "complex" (cELs). Endpoints were endoleak spontaneous resolution, 1-year aneurysm sac failure to regress (>5 mm diameter decrease), and 4-year endoleak-related secondary interventions. Kaplan-Meier estimates and Cox regression were used for the analysis. RESULTS There were 142 patients with JRAAs/PRAAs (n = 85; 60%) or TAAAs (n = 57; 40%), with 513 target arteries incorporated through a fenestration (n = 294; 57%) or directional branch (n = 219; 43%). Fifty-nine primary TVELs (12%) were identified in 35 patients (25%), a dEL in 20 patients (14%) and iEL in 15 (11%); 22 (15%) had a determinate or indeterminate cEL. Overall spontaneous resolution rate was 75% (95% confidence interval [CI], 51%-87%) at 4 years. cELs (odds ratio [OR], 5.00; 95% CI, 1.10-49.4; P < .001) and iELs after BEVAR (OR, 9.43; 95% CI, 3.41-56.4; P = .002) were more likely to persist >6 months, and persistent forms were associated with sac failure to regress at 1 year (OR, 1.72; 95% CI, 1.03-12.59; P = .040). Overall freedom from endoleak-related reinterventions was 85% (95% CI, 79%-92%) at 4 years, 92% (95% CI, 87%-97%) for those without primary TVELs and 62% (95% CI, 46%-84%) for those with any primary TVEL (P < .001). In particular, cELs (hazard ratio, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.4-18.81; P = .020) were associated with an increased need for reintervention. In case a secondary intervention was needed, iEL or cEL had an increased risk for multiple secondary procedures (hazard ratio, 2.67; 95% CI, 1.22-10.34; P = .034). CONCLUSIONS Primary TVELs are frequent after F-BEVAR, and a clear characterization of the endoleak source by computed tomography angiogram is not possible in 40% of patients. Most primary TVELs spontaneously resolve, but during follow-up, patients with any primary TVEL experience a worsened freedom from endoleak-related reinterventions that is mostly driven by persistence of cELs and post-BEVAR iELs. Multiple secondary procedures may be required in case of iELs or cELs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Squizzato
- Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Division, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Padua University, Padua, Italy.
| | - Michele Antonello
- Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Division, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - Matteo Modena
- Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Division, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - Edoardo Forcella
- Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Division, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - Elda Chiara Colacchio
- Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Division, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - Franco Grego
- Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Division, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - Michele Piazza
- Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Division, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zanon C, Cademartiri F, Toniolo A, Bini C, Clemente A, Colacchio EC, Cabrelle G, Mastro F, Antonello M, Quaia E, Pepe A. Advantages of Photon-Counting Detector CT in Aortic Imaging. Tomography 2023; 10:1-13. [PMID: 38276249 PMCID: PMC10821336 DOI: 10.3390/tomography10010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Photon-counting Computed Tomography (PCCT) is a promising imaging technique. Using detectors that count the number and energy of photons in multiple bins, PCCT offers several advantages over conventional CT, including a higher image quality, reduced contrast agent volume, radiation doses, and artifacts. Although PCCT is well established for cardiac imaging in assessing coronary artery disease, its application in aortic imaging remains limited. This review summarizes the available literature and provides an overview of the current use of PCCT for the diagnosis of aortic imaging, focusing mainly on endoleaks detection and characterization after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), contrast dose volume, and radiation exposure reduction, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease and in those requiring follow-up CT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Zanon
- Department of Radiology, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Filippo Cademartiri
- Department of Radiology, Fondazione Toscana Gabriele Monasterio, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Costanza Bini
- Department of Radiology, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Alberto Clemente
- Department of Radiology, Fondazione Toscana Gabriele Monasterio, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Elda Chiara Colacchio
- Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Section, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Giulio Cabrelle
- Department of Radiology, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Florinda Mastro
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Michele Antonello
- Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Section, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Emilio Quaia
- Department of Radiology, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Alessia Pepe
- Department of Radiology, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Meloni A, Cademartiri F, Positano V, Celi S, Berti S, Clemente A, La Grutta L, Saba L, Bossone E, Cavaliere C, Punzo B, Maffei E. Cardiovascular Applications of Photon-Counting CT Technology: A Revolutionary New Diagnostic Step. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2023; 10:363. [PMID: 37754792 PMCID: PMC10531582 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd10090363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT) is an emerging technology that can potentially transform clinical CT imaging. After a brief description of the PCCT technology, this review summarizes its main advantages over conventional CT: improved spatial resolution, improved signal and contrast behavior, reduced electronic noise and artifacts, decreased radiation dose, and multi-energy capability with improved material discrimination. Moreover, by providing an overview of the existing literature, this review highlights how the PCCT benefits have been harnessed to enhance and broaden the diagnostic capabilities of CT for cardiovascular applications, including the detection of coronary artery calcifications, evaluation of coronary plaque extent and composition, evaluation of coronary stents, and assessment of myocardial tissue characteristics and perfusion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Meloni
- Department of Radiology, Fondazione G. Monasterio CNR-Regione Toscana, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (V.P.); (A.C.); (E.M.)
- Unità Operativa Complessa di Bioingegneria, Fondazione G. Monasterio CNR-Regione Toscana, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Filippo Cademartiri
- Department of Radiology, Fondazione G. Monasterio CNR-Regione Toscana, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (V.P.); (A.C.); (E.M.)
| | - Vicenzo Positano
- Department of Radiology, Fondazione G. Monasterio CNR-Regione Toscana, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (V.P.); (A.C.); (E.M.)
- Unità Operativa Complessa di Bioingegneria, Fondazione G. Monasterio CNR-Regione Toscana, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Simona Celi
- BioCardioLab, Fondazione G. Monasterio CNR-Regione Toscana, 54100 Massa, Italy;
| | - Sergio Berti
- Diagnostic and Interventional Cardiology Department, Fondazione G. Monasterio CNR-Regione Toscana, 54100 Massa, Italy;
| | - Alberto Clemente
- Department of Radiology, Fondazione G. Monasterio CNR-Regione Toscana, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (V.P.); (A.C.); (E.M.)
| | - Ludovico La Grutta
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital “P. Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Luca Saba
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy;
| | - Eduardo Bossone
- Department of Cardiology, Ospedale Cardarelli, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Carlo Cavaliere
- Department of Radiology, Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico SynLab-SDN, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.C.); (B.P.)
| | - Bruna Punzo
- Department of Radiology, Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico SynLab-SDN, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.C.); (B.P.)
| | - Erica Maffei
- Department of Radiology, Fondazione G. Monasterio CNR-Regione Toscana, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (V.P.); (A.C.); (E.M.)
| |
Collapse
|