Assessing blood vessel growth in asymptomatic carotid stenosis using ultrasound
Official title: Predictive Value of Carotid Lesion Neovascularization Detected by Contrast-enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS) in Patients With Asymptomatic Carotid Stenosis
Run by University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland · NCT01732523 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to see if a special ultrasound can help find tiny blood vessels in the neck arteries of people who have narrowing but no symptoms, to better understand the risk of future strokes.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 240 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Basel) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 2012 |
| Main results expected | December 2026 |
| Study ends | December 2027 |
| Registry record updated | April 3, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT01732523 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are asymptomatic adults over 18 years with at least 30% carotid stenosis as determined by standard ultrasound.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with a history of carotid surgery, severe heart failure, recent myocardial infarction, or significant pulmonary hypertension may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates the role of neovascularization in asymptomatic carotid stenosis by utilizing contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) imaging techniques. The study aims to identify the microcirculation within the vessel wall and atherosclerotic plaques, which may indicate plaque vulnerability. Participants will receive a CEUS examination after the injection of ultrasound contrast agents to evaluate the presence of vasa vasorum associated with carotid stenosis. The findings could enhance understanding of plaque stability and the risk of future cerebrovascular events.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved risk stratification and management of patients with carotid stenosis, potentially preventing strokes.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using CEUS for assessing carotid stenosis is established, the specific focus on neovascularization in asymptomatic patients is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients age \> 18 years * Asymptomatic (no history of cerebrovascular event in the corresponding vessel territory) ≥30% carotid stenosis on standard carotid ultrasound Exclusion Criteria: * History of previous carotid endarterectomy or carotid stenting. * Heart failure (HYHA III or IV) * Myocardial infarction (\<7d) * Severe pulmonal-arterial hypertension (pulmonal arterial pressure \>90mmHg) based on clinical information (history of pulmonal arterial pressure, dyspnea on exertion New York Heart Association (NYHA) III and NYHA IV) * pregnancy (pregnancy test in patients of childbearing age: \<50 years and/or less than 2 years after menopause) * Follow-up is not considered feasible
Where it's running
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Unversity Hospital Basel, Angiology
Basel, Switzerland Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Daniel Staub, MD — University Hospital Basle, Angiology
- Study coordinator: Daniel Staub, MD
- Email: daniel.staub@usb.ch
- Phone: +41612655154
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.