Title:Translational Application of Combining Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Biomechanical Analysis in Carotid Plaque Vulnerability Assessment
VOLUME: 3 ISSUE: 1
Author(s):Zhongzhao Teng, Umar Sadat and Jonathan H. Gillard
Affiliation:Level 5, Box 218, Hills Road, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK.
Keywords:Atherosclerosis, biomechanics, carotid, magnetic resonance image, plaque, rupture, stress.
Abstract:Stroke is the 3rd leading cause of death in the developed countries. It will rank the 2nd among the four leading
causes of death globally by 2030 according to the World Health Organization. Carotid atherosclerotic disease is a
predominant cause of stroke resulting from carotid plaque rupture. Degree of stenosis, which is the current criterion for
assessment of atherosclerotic disease severity, has been observed to be insufficient. Atherosclerotic plaque is composed of
various components, such as lipid-rich necrotic core, haemorrhage and calcium, covered by fibrous cap. Increasing
evidence has shown that plaque vulnerability has a close relationship with these morphological features. Moreover, under
physiological conditions plaque experiences mechanical loading due to blood pressure and blood flow. From the
mechanical view point, rupture possibly occurs when the extra loading exceeds the material strength of the plaque.
Therefore, anatomical and mechanical features should be considered in an integrated way for a more accurate assessment
of plaque vulnerability. This review focuses on (1) the emerging high-risk morphological features and their association
with clinical symptoms. Some related patents have been summarized; and (2) translational clinical application of
biomechanical analysis in plaque vulnerability assessment. For completeness, the basis of atherosclerotic plaque,
magnetic resonance imaging and finite element analysis will be introduced briefly.
