Novel Imaging Techniques to provide Optimal Treatment for Stroke Patients

Over time, arterial vessel walls can thicken, leading to the formation of an atherosclerotic plaque. Rupture of a
so-called vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque is the main cause of cardiovascular disease. Recently, researchers in Maastricht were able to visualise the plaque composition, using new imaging techniques. New research aims to test the hypothesis that patients with vulnerable plaques benefit from surgery, while patients with stable plaques respond better to treatment with medication.