Carotid Plaque Characterization Using Innovative Ultrasound Techniques

Launched by HOSPICES CIVILS DE LYON · Jan 27, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at new ways to understand the characteristics of carotid plaques, which are build-ups of fatty deposits in the carotid arteries that can lead to strokes. Currently, doctors mainly focus on how narrow the artery is when deciding if a patient needs surgery. However, this study will explore new ultrasound techniques that can provide more detailed information about the plaque's composition, including factors that indicate whether the plaque is unstable and could lead to a stroke. By using advanced imaging methods, the researchers hope to better identify patients at risk and improve treatment decisions.

To be eligible for this study, participants must be 18 years or older and have either asymptomatic or symptomatic carotid plaques that are at least 50% narrowed. They should also be referred by a vascular surgery consultation and agree to participate by signing a consent form. However, certain individuals may be excluded, including those with specific health conditions or allergies that could interfere with the study. If you decide to take part, you can expect to undergo innovative ultrasound testing that will help researchers learn more about your carotid plaque and its risk factors.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Female or male over 18 years of age
• • Patients with asymptomatic or symptomatic carotid plaque (stenosis\> 50% NASCET), referred by the Hospices Civils de Lyon (HCL) vascular surgery consultation and for whom a surgical indication has been retained.
• • Patient having agreed to participate in the study and signed a written informed consent form
• • Patient affiliated to a social security scheme or equivalent.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Patients with contraindications to Sonovue (right-to-left shunt, severe pulmonary hypertension, allergy to the molecule)
• • Patients with unstable cardiovascular pathology (coronary artery disease, stroke / transient ischemic attack, cardiac rhythm disorders)
• • Uncontrolled hypertension
• • Respiratory distress syndrome
• • Patients with contraindications to MRI (claustrophobia, presence of metallic elements, etc.).
• • Gadolinium-related contraindications and precautions for use
• • Contraindication to dobutamine
• • Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to one of the constituents of Gadolinium,
• • Renal insufficiency with clearance \<30 ml/min/1.73 m²,
• • Pregnant or breast-feeding patients
• • Patients under guardianship or trusteeship