The hemodynamic and geometric mechanisms of carotid artery atherosclerotic plaques formation

Motivation: Carotid artery geometry and hemodynamics are considered as potential imaging markers of atherosclerotic plaque formation risk. Goal(s): 4D flow MRI has been widely used in large blood vessels of the heart, with relatively few applications in head and neck blood vessels. Approach: This study, 4D flow MRI was used to evaluate the carotid artery hemodynamics, and the geometric characteristics were fused to explore the hemodynamic and geometric mechanism of carotid plaque formation. Results: The large bifurcation angle and the low tortuosity are geometric risk factors for carotid bifurcation plaque formation. Low PG and low WSS are hemodynamic factors promoting plaque formation. Impact: 4D flow MRI can directly measure very comprehensive hemodynamic parameters in vivo from any direction and angle during different cardiac cycles, and can visualize blood flow direction and status. However, it is not widely accepted in clinical practice.