Jianmin Yuan1, Andrew J Patterson2, Ammara Usman1, Gregory C Makris1, Zhongzhao Teng1, Jonathan H Gillard1, and Martin J Graves1,2
1Department of Radiology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom, 2Department of Radiology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
Carotid neovascularization and lumen surface morphology both play important roles in the progression of atherosclerotic
plaque. This study uses a high-spatial and temporal
resolution dynamic 3D contrast-enhanced (CE) imaging technique to simultaneously
acquire and explore the relationship between the two factors. Results demonstrate
that carotid luminal stenosis and appearance of ulceration are correlated with
the plaque neovascularization. The study shows the ability to perform
high-resolution carotid plaque morphology and functional assessment within a reasonable
scanning time.
