Clinical significance of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in surgical treatment strategy of carotid stenosis

Abstract

Objective To analyze the clinical significance of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the treatment of patients with carotid stenosis. Methods The clinical data of 89 patients with carotid stenosis was retrospectively analyzed.The morphology and stenosis of carotid plaques were observed by contrast-enhanced ultrasound, and analyzing the relationship between the patient′s clinical symptoms and treatment options. Results There were 66 males, 23 females, age ranging from 41 to 88 years.There were 147 plaques in 89 patients and 58 patients with bilateral lesions. The intensity of plaque ultrasound contrast was grade Ⅰ in 40 cases(27%), grade Ⅱ in 30(20%), grade Ⅲ in 31(21%), andgrade Ⅳ in 46(31%). The symptomatic group had higher CEUS strengths in grade Ⅲ(21.4%) and grade Ⅳ(37.9%). The difference was statistically significant between the two groups (P<0.05). Symptomatic group with high proportion of severe stenosis (44.7%) and occlusion (9.7%). It is narrower than that of asymptomatic group.The difference of stenosis was statistically significant between the two groups (P<0.05). Conclusion Contrast-enhanced ultrasound can dynamically and visually assess the distribution and density of carotid plaque morphology. It is useful for evaluating the treatment of patients with carotid stenosis. Key words: Carotid stenosis; Carotid endarteretomy; Carotid contrast-enhanced ultrasound