High-resolution dynamic ultrasound imaging of the carotid bifurcation: a prospective evaluation.

Abstract

Patients (100) underwent high-resolution dynamic ultrasound imaging of the carotid bifurcation immediately before cerebral angiography. The examinations were interpreted independently. A positive ultrasound interpretation indicated the presence of moderate to extensive atheromatous plaque, while a negative interpretation indicated normal vessels or minimal atheromatous disease. Of the ultrasound examinations, 10% were technically unsatisfactory. Of the remaining studies, there was satisfactory correlation between ultrasound and angiography in approximately 85% and disagreement in 15%. The majority of ultrasound errors were false positive (although these probably represent false-negative angiograms). Although atheromatous disease was accurately detected by ultrasound, stenosis, ulceration, intraluminal thrombus and vessel occlusion were not reliably identified.