RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

3D Contrast Enhanced Microvascular Ultrasound of Carotid Atherosclerosis for the Detection of Carotid Plaque Neo-Revascularisation.

This study explores a new way to examine fatty build-ups, called plaques, in the arteries in your neck. These plaques can grow and sometimes cause serious health issues like strokes. We know that certain plaques, especially those with new, tiny blood vessels, are more likely to cause problems. Currently, we use normal 2D ultrasound, but it doesn't show the whole picture. This study uses a new 3D ultrasound, along with special computer analysis, to get a much clearer, complete view of these plaques and any new blood vessels inside them. By detecting these potentially risky plaques earlier and more accurately, we hope to improve treatments and prevent serious conditions like strokes.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

London North West Healthcare NHS Trust

Enrolment target

Start

16 Oct 2025

Estimated completion

30 Sep 2026

Carotid Atherosclerosis Ultrasound Plaque Neovascularization

What is this study about?

When we talk about 'carotid atherosclerosis', it simply means there's a build-up of fatty stuff in the main arteries in your neck, called carotid arteries. These fatty build-ups, or 'plaques', can sometimes cause blockages or even break off, leading to serious problems like a stroke.

Doctors have found that some of these plaques are more dangerous than others. For example, plaques that have grown their own tiny new blood vessels are more likely to cause trouble. Right now, it's hard to see these tiny blood vessels clearly with our usual scanning methods. This study is trying out a new, advanced 3D ultrasound technique that can give us a much better and more complete picture of these plaques in your neck.

The main aim is to see if this new 3D ultrasound can accurately show us these tiny new blood vessels within the plaques. If it works well, it means doctors could spot the risky plaques earlier. This would allow them to decide on the best treatment sooner, potentially helping to prevent serious health issues like strokes more effectively.

Key takeaways

The study uses an advanced 3D ultrasound to examine fatty plaques in neck arteries.
It aims to find tiny new blood vessels within plaques that might be risky.
Detecting these plaques earlier could help prevent serious issues like strokes.
This research focuses on improving how doctors 'see' these plaques for better prevention.
The ultrasound is a safe scan, not using radiation like X-rays.

Who may be eligible?

To be able to take part in this study, you need to be at least 18 years old. You must have already been involved in another study called SECURE, where you had a specific type of ultrasound scan on your neck arteries, and that scan showed you have at least one of these fatty plaques.

It's very important that you fully understand what the study involves and agree to take part. Unfortunately, you cannot join if you are under 18 or if you can't give your informed consent. Also, if you know you're allergic to 'microbubble contrast agents' (a special liquid used during the scan to help see things more clearly), or if you are pregnant, you won't be able to participate.

Quick self-check

Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you previously taken part in the SECURE trial and had a carotid CEUS scan?
Did that scan show you have at least one fatty plaque in your neck artery?
Are you able to understand and agree to take part in the study?
Are you not allergic to contrast agents used in scans?
Are you not pregnant?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

This study involves undergoing a special 3D contrast-enhanced microvascular carotid ultrasound. This is a type of scan that uses sound waves and a safe contrast liquid to get very detailed pictures of the plaques in your neck arteries. The study will involve a single visit for this scan. There are no planned medications to take or long-term follow-up visits specifically for this study, as it's primarily an imaging study to test the new ultrasound technique. The total duration of your active participation would likely be limited to the time spent at the clinic for this one scan.

Potential risks and benefits

The potential benefit of taking part is that it helps doctors learn more about identifying dangerous plaques, which could lead to better ways to prevent strokes in the future. The risks with this type of ultrasound are generally very low, as it doesn't use radiation. However, there's a small risk of an allergic reaction to the contrast agent used during the scan, which will be discussed with you thoroughly. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Northwick Park Hospital
Harrow, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is a 'plaque' in my neck artery?

It's a build-up of fatty material in the main blood vessels in your neck, which can sometimes stop blood flowing properly.

What does a 'stroke' mean?

A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of your brain is cut off, often because of a blockage from these plaques.

Is the ultrasound scan safe?

Yes, ultrasound scans are generally very safe as they use sound waves, not radiation. A special liquid is used, and doctors will check if you have any allergies.

Will I get any treatment as part of this study?

This study is focused on improving how we see plaques. Any treatment decisions would be made by your doctor based on your overall health, not directly as part of this study.

What does '3D' ultrasound mean?

Instead of a flat picture, a 3D ultrasound creates a more complete, lifelike image, like seeing something in three dimensions, giving doctors a better view.

How to find out more

Emma Howard

emma.howard16@nhs.net 0208 869 2548 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.