18F FDG and 68Ga FAPI PET/MR Imaging of Carotid Artery Plaque Vulnerability: A Clinical Study in Carotid Artery Plaque Patients

Launched by RUIJIN HOSPITAL · May 26, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new way to assess the vulnerability of carotid artery plaques, which can lead to strokes. The researchers are using advanced imaging techniques called PET and MRI to look closely at these plaques. By doing this, they hope to find out which plaques are more likely to cause problems, helping doctors determine the best treatment options and potentially prevent strokes.

To participate in this study, you need to be between 18 and 80 years old and have carotid artery plaques confirmed by an ultrasound in the last two weeks. These plaques should meet specific criteria, such as being a certain thickness or causing significant narrowing of the artery. Unfortunately, some individuals, like those with certain medical conditions or who have had specific surgeries, may not be eligible. If you join the trial, you can expect to undergo PET and MRI scans, which are non-invasive imaging tests that will help researchers gather important information about your plaques. This study aims to improve our understanding of plaque vulnerability, which could lead to better stroke prevention strategies in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • -Age between 18 and 80 years; Presence of carotid atherosclerotic plaque confirmed by ultrasound within the past two weeks, with carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) ≥ 2 mm (IMT ≥ 1.2 mm is defined as carotid atherosclerosis) or carotid artery stenosis ≥ 50% as indicated by CTA.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Absolute or relative contraindications related to PET/MR imaging safety (e.g., metallic implants, MRI phobia, etc.); Patients who have undergone carotid endarterectomy (CEA) or carotid artery stenting (CAS); Pregnant or lactating women; Presence of other vascular diseases, such as vasculitis, moyamoya disease, arterial dissection, etc.; Severe agitation or inability to cooperate with imaging procedures.