Shear Wave Elastography for Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaques

Launched by UPECLIN HC FM BOTUCATU UNESP · Jan 9, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is investigating a method called shear wave elastography (SWE) to measure the stiffness of carotid atherosclerotic plaques. These plaques can narrow the arteries in the neck, which can lead to serious health issues. The purpose of the study is to see how accurately the stiffness measured by SWE compares to other imaging methods, like greyscale median (GSM) values and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as well as actual tissue studies after surgery. The researchers want to find out if plaque stiffness can help predict the condition of the arteries and guide treatment decisions.

To participate in this trial, you need to be between the ages of 65 and 74 and have carotid plaques that are causing narrowing of more than 50%. However, if you have had previous surgeries on your neck, certain types of cancer treatments, or specific medical conditions affecting your blood vessels, you may not be eligible. Participants will undergo a vascular ultrasound that includes SWE and GSM assessments, followed by an MRI to confirm the narrowing of their arteries. If necessary, patients may undergo surgery to remove the plaques, which will then be examined in detail. It’s important to note that this study is focused on understanding the accuracy of these tests and does not decide on any treatments.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patients with atherosclerotic carotid plaques that develop stenosis superior to 50%.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Previous cervical surgery;
• • Previous cervical radiotherapy;
• • Stenosis caused by vascular inflammatory diseases;
• • Pregnant women;
• • High carotid bifurcation (inaccessible by vascular ultrasound linear probe);
• • Posterior acoustic shadowing that impair morphological evaluation of the plaque.