Contrast-enhanced ultrasound assesses neovascularization in carotid atherosclerotic plaques / 国际脑血管病杂志

Carotid atherosclerotic stenosis is associated with an increased risk of stroke onset and recurrence. The histopathological features of the vulnerable plaques include the presence of lipid necrotic cores, intra-plaque hemorrhage, intra-plaque neovascularization, active inflammation, and thin/ruptured fibrous caps. The intraplaque neovascularization may promote the intra-plaque hemorrhage, and is associated with the rupture of plaques, the formation of local emboli, and the distal embolism. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound can identify the vulnerable carotid plaques by evaluating intraplaque neovascularization.

Predictive role of transcranial Doppler ultrasound in patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with endovascular therapy / 国际脑血管病杂志

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) caused by large vessel occlusion (LVO) accounts for about 20% of all patients with AIS. Endovascular treatment (EVT) is the gold standard for the treatment of LVO-AIS. It is necessary to evaluate the cerebral hemodynamics after EVT, and individualized blood pressure and cerebral blood flow management can be carried out accordingly. Transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD) is a method that can evaluate the changes of cerebral hemodynamics in real time at the bedside. It has the advantages of being reliable, safe, cheap, and non-invasive. This article reviews the predictive role of TCD in patients with AIS treated with EVT