Longitudinal study of intracranial atherosclerosis using advanced imaging techniques
Official title: Morphologic Evolution and Remodeling of Intracranial Atherosclerosis: A Longitudinal Study by 3D-rotational Angiography
Run by Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT03295773 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to see how changes in the blood vessels in the brain relate to strokes by using advanced imaging techniques to look closely at intracranial atherosclerosis over time.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 140 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Chinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 22, 2016 |
| Main results expected | December 28, 2026 |
| Study ends | June 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | February 24, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT03295773 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are patients aged 30 to 85 who have experienced an acute ischemic stroke due to artery-to-artery thrombo-embolism and have significant intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with stroke etiologies unrelated to intracranial atherosclerosis or those with significant extra-cranial carotid artery stenosis 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 aims to investigate the morphological changes and remodeling of intracranial atherosclerosis (ICAD) using 3D-rotational angiography (3DRA). By employing this advanced imaging technique, which offers superior spatial resolution, the study seeks to analyze the geometric parameters and luminal narrowing associated with ischemic strokes. The research will be conducted under strict control of cardiovascular risk factors, with assessments performed by a neuro-radiologist and a stroke neurologist who are blinded to the time sequence of imaging. This approach allows for a detailed understanding of stroke mechanisms and the evolution of ICAD over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients with ischemic stroke related to intracranial atherosclerosis.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of 3D-rotational angiography is a relatively novel approach in this context, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing the understanding of vascular conditions.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Patient is 30 to 85 years of age, inclusive. 2. Patients who have an acute infarct in diffusion-weighted MRI compatible with artery-to-artery thrombo-embolism and a relevant intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis ≥60%. 3. Patient who has no contra-indication for the proposed imaging tests. 4. Patient understands the purpose and requirements of the study, and has provided an informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: Patient with any of the following conditions would be excluded: 1. Stroke etiology uncertain or unrelated to intracranial atherosclerosis, such as cardioembolism, Moyamoya disease, small vessel disease or primary angiitis of CNS. 2. A tandem stenosis \>50% at extra-cranial internal carotid artery. 3. Bleeding propensity: active peptic ulcer disease, major systemic hemorrhage within 30 days, thrombocytopenia (platelets \<100 x 109/L), coagulopathy (INR \>1.5). 4. A medical condition that would not allow the patient to adhere to the protocol or complete the study.
Where it's running
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Chinese University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Thomas Wai Hong LEUNG, FRCP — Chinese University of Hong Kong
- Study coordinator: Thomas Wai Hong LEUNG, FRCP
- Email: drtleung@cuhk.edu.hk
- Phone: 852-35053593
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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.