Treatment of advanced atherosclerosis with calcified fibroatheroma plaque using B- mode ultrasound- guided high- dose atorvastatin- loaded microbubbles- mediated shock wave therapy

Abstract

Background and Aims : Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases. The management of advanced atherosclerosis with calcification reduces the risk of stroke and myocardial infarction and their related deaths. In this study, we developed an experimental intravascular shock wave therapy system, and investigated its effectiveness on intraplaque calcium content reduction and advanced atherosclerotic plaque regression, wherein diagnostic B- mode ultrasound is combined with therapy system, with a goal of increased safety.