CT Evaluation of Carotid Plaque Components

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · Mar 1, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, called the "CT Evaluation of Carotid Plaque Components," is studying how well a new type of CT scan can identify different tissue types in carotid plaque, which can cause strokes. The researchers want to see if this new scanning method can accurately detect calcium, bleeding, and fatty deposits in the plaque, comparing the results to other imaging methods like MRI and tissue samples. Ultimately, the goal is to better understand the characteristics of carotid plaque and its relationship to stroke.

To participate, you need to be between 65 and 74 years old and have certain symptoms related to carotid artery disease, including a previous stroke. You should also be scheduled for surgery to remove plaque from your carotid artery. If you join the study, you will undergo a special CT scan and an MRI of your neck, and in some cases, tissue from your surgery will be examined. It's important to note that participants must be able to read and understand English and sign a consent form. The trial is currently looking for participants, and all genders are welcome to join.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis with ipsilateral ischemic infarcts attributable to the carotid disease
• • At least 1mm of noncalcified plaque on same side of stroke
• • Brain MRI documenting ischemic infarct in distribution attributable to ipsilateral carotid disease
• • Patients planned to undergo carotid endarterectomies
• • Patients must be able to read and understand English
• • Participants must sign the informed consent form
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Exclusion Criteria
• • Patients less than 18 years old
• • Women who are pregnant and/or nursing