Evaluating carotid plaque components using advanced CT imaging
Official title: Validation of Photon Counting/Spectral Computed Tomography Angiography of Carotid Plaque Composition in Patients With Ischemic Stroke
Run by University of Pennsylvania · NCT05764772 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 70 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Pennsylvania Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 1, 2023 |
| Main results expected | August 2026 |
| Study ends | December 2028 |
| Registry record updated | November 25, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT05764772 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis and ischemic infarcts related to carotid disease who are scheduled for carotid endarterectomy.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients under 18 years old or those who are pregnant or nursing will 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 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.
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 gone: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to better characterize plaque components.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
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
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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.