Relationship between carotid atherosclerosis and localization of ischemic stroke

Abstract

Background. Carotid atherosclerosis is the main factor in the development of ischemic stroke. Determining the location and structure of atherosclerotic plaques and the degree of stenosis of the internal carotid artery can help to predict the development of cerebral hemodynamic disorders using a comprehensive ultrasound examination of the carotid arteries. Purpose. To assess the relationship between the nature of atherosclerosis of the carotid arteries and the location of ischemic stroke by means of echography. Materials and methods. In 127 patients (age 37–74 years, average 56±7 years) with ischemic stroke (IS), atherosclerotic plaques in the carotid arteries were visualized, their predominant localization, internal structure and degree of stenosis were determined in two-dimensional and color Doppler modes. Result. Carotid stenosis of >60% was recorded in 23 (18.1±3.4%) patients with rightsided IS and in 38 (30.0±4.1%) patients with left-sided IS (LSIS) (p=0.04). With carotid stenosis more than 60%, the Vica/Vcca index in patients with RSIS was 3.07±0.34, and in patients with LSIS – 3.21±0.45, which was significantly (p=0,01) higher than in stenosis <60%.