Preliminary study on evaluation of neovascularization within carotid soft plaques with contrast-enhanced three dimensional ultrasonography / 中华超声影像学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the clinical value of contrast-enhanced three-dimensional ultrasound in assessing neovascularization within carotid soft plaques. Methods Thirty-six cases with 42 soft plaques were examined with contrast-enhanced two dimensional ultrasound and contrast-enhanced three dimensional ultrasound. Soft plaques were divided into four grades according to distribution and shape of contrast mediagrade Ⅰ (there was no enhancement in plaque) , grade Ⅱ (plaque was enhanced with sparse spots pattern or enhanced in small range locally), grade Ⅲ (plaque was enhanced with sparse spots and short-line pattern ),grade Ⅳ (plaque was enhanced with line and grid pattern). Results The results of contrast-enhanced two-dimensional ultrasound were as followed 4.8% grade Ⅰ , 35.7% grade Ⅱ , 52.4% grade Ⅲ and 7.1% grade Ⅳ. The results of contrast-enhanced three-dimensional ultrasound were as followed9.5% grade Ⅱ , 47.6% grade Ⅲ and 42.9% grade Ⅳ. Conclusions Spatial distribution of neovascularization within carotid soft plaques could be reflected comprehensively by contrast-enhanced three dimensional ultrasound, and it might be a new mothod to investigate spatial structure and microvascular perfusion of soft plaques furtherly.