Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 18 to 80

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 typeObservational
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
Enrollment140 (estimated)
SponsorChinese University of Hong Kong
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hong Kong)
StatusRecruiting
StartedAugust 22, 2016
Main results expectedDecember 28, 2026
Study endsJune 30, 2027
Registry record updatedFebruary 24, 2026
Trial IDNCT03295773 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

  • 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

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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  • Remote ischemic conditioning for post-stroke insomnia

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    Recruiting Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences · Chengdu, Sichuan · NCT07874594

  • Ear-based nerve stimulation to help sleep after a stroke

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  • Theta Burst Stimulation to Help Stroke Recovery (Upper and Lower Limbs)

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  • Preventing another ischemic stroke with a smart bracelet and app

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.