Atherosclerotic Plaque Surface Morphology in the Carotid Bifurcation Assessed With Multidetector Computed Tomography Angiography

Abstract

Multidetector CT angiography allows the classification of atherosclerotic carotid plaque surface. Complicated plaques are frequent in atherosclerotic carotid disease, especially with higher stenosis degree. Ulcerations are mostly located in the proximal part of the atherosclerotic plaque. Hypercholesterolemia and smoking are related with the presence of complicated plaques.