The purpose of this study is to explore the value of vascular intima-media measurement (QIMT) and vascular function assessment system (QAS) in evaluating the structure and function of carotid artery in patients with carotid plaque. 30 patients with carotid artery plaque confirmed by ultrasound were randomly selected into the plaque group, and 31 healthy volunteers were enrolled in control group. Parameters of carotid artery were collected by QIMT and QAS, respectively. The parameters included intima-media thickness (IMT), dilatation coefficient (DC), α elastic coefficient (α), β elastic coefficient (β), pulse wave velocity (PWV) and augmented index of reflected wave (AIx). The results showed that IMT, α, β and PWV in plaque group were significantly higher than those in control group, while DC was significantly lower than that in control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05).There was no significant difference in AIx between plaque group and control group. In conclusion, the carotid IMT is thickened, the elasticity is reduced and the stiffness is significantly increased in the plaque group; QIMT and QAS technology can detect the early changes of carotid structure and function, and provide a reference for early intervention and treatment of clinical cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events.

Cao Yan, Zhang Tuowei. Clinical value of ultrasound in the evaluation of vascular function after carotid plaque formation. Frontiers in Medical Science Research (2023) Vol. 5, Issue 7: 23-28. https://doi.org/10.25236/FMSR.2023.050704.

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