Identification of Carotid Plaques Composition Through a Compact CSRR-Based Microwave Sensor

Abstract

This study aims to identify the dielectric constant of the carotid atherosclerotic plaques and categorise them using a CSRR based microwave sensor. A Complementary Split Ring Resonator (CSRR) at 2.3 GHz measured 33 samples of carotid plaques obtained after endarterectomy. HFSS software simulations were employed to substantiate the measurements. Histological analyses were performed simultaneously to classify the plaques. The constant dielectric of dangerous carotid plaques identified by histology was much higher than that of low-risk calcified carotid plaques. Microwave data were pertinent to the simulations. The current study, performed on ex-vivo carotid plaques, illustrates the sensor's ability to differentiate plaques with diverse components. Calcified low-risk plaques displayed distinct values from dangerous soft plaques. Further statistical correlation of the 33 samples is required. After validation, an in-vivo prototype will be designed and tested. • Carotid plaques are identified via the dielectric constant using a microwave sensor. • The sensor differentiated calcified carotid plaques from plaques at risk. • A pre-op modality that can identify the composition of the carotid plaque in vivo. • Correlation of the histological analysis with the dielectric parameters.