Evaluating carotid plaque components using advanced CT imaging
Validation of Photon Counting/Spectral Computed Tomography Angiography of Carotid Plaque Composition in Patients With Ischemic Stroke
This study is testing a new type of CT scan to see if it can better identify different parts of carotid plaque in stroke patients, which may help understand the link between plaque makeup and stroke risk.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 70 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Pennsylvania Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT05764772 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to validate the effectiveness of photon counting/spectral CT in distinguishing various tissue components of carotid plaque in patients with ischemic stroke. Participants will undergo both photon counting/spectral CT angiography and carotid MRI to assess the presence of calcium, hemorrhage, and lipid components in their plaques. The study will correlate these findings with the burden of stroke in the affected brain regions, providing insights into the relationship between plaque composition and stroke risk. The goal is to improve diagnostic capabilities beyond conventional imaging methods.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis and ischemic infarcts related to carotid disease who are scheduled for carotid endarterectomy.
Not a fit: Patients under 18 years old or those who are pregnant or nursing will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the ability to identify high-risk carotid plaques, potentially leading to better prevention of strokes.
How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to better characterize plaque components.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis with ipsilateral ischemic infarcts attributable to the carotid disease * At least 1mm of noncalcified plaque on same side of stroke * Brain MRI documenting ischemic infarct in distribution attributable to ipsilateral carotid disease * Patients planned to undergo carotid endarterectomies * Patients must be able to read and understand English * Participants must sign the informed consent form Exclusion Criteria: * Exclusion Criteria * Patients less than 18 years old * Women who are pregnant and/or nursing
Where this trial is running
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- University of Pennsylvania Hospital — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jae W Song — University of Pennsylvania Hospital
- Study coordinator: Marisa Sanchez
- Email: Marisa.Sanchez@pennmedicine.upenn.edu
- Phone: 215-901-9994
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.