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Updated: Aug 24, 2026

A Magnetic Resonance Imaging-based Computational Protocol for Analysis of Plaque Morphology and Hemodynamics in Patients with Carotid Artery Stenosis
09:36

A Magnetic Resonance Imaging-based Computational Protocol for Analysis of Plaque Morphology and Hemodynamics in Patients with Carotid Artery Stenosis

Published on: August 12, 2025

Hemodynamics of carotid artery atherosclerotic occlusive disease

Ajay K Wakhloo1, Baruch B Lieber, Jaehoon Seong

  • 1Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1611 Northwest 12th Avenue, West Wing 279, Miami, FL 33136, USA. awakhloo@med.miami.edu

Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology : JVIR
|April 23, 2004
PubMed

Insights

This study reviews how blood flow (hemodynamics) at the carotid bifurcation influences atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque. Understanding these mechanisms can improve treatments for carotid artery disease.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Science
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Pathophysiology

Background:

  • Atherosclerosis commonly affects the carotid bifurcation, particularly the carotid sinus.
  • Hemodynamic forces are implicated in the initiation and progression of atherosclerotic occlusive disease.
  • Previous research has focused on understanding local hemodynamics and the associated biological responses.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review seminal works on hemodynamics and biologic responses in carotid bifurcation atherosclerosis.
  • To present new analyses of age-dependent morphologic maturation of the human carotid bifurcation.
  • To explore how understanding hemodynamics can enhance endovascular and noninvasive therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of seminal works on carotid bifurcation hemodynamics and atherogenesis.
  • Analysis of age-dependent morphologic maturation of the human carotid bifurcation.
  • Synthesis of hemodynamic principles and biological responses in plaque development.

Main Results:

  • Complex local hemodynamics within the carotid bulb are critical to atherogenesis.
  • Specific biological responses are elicited by these hemodynamic forces.
  • Age-dependent morphologic changes in the carotid bifurcation influence hemodynamic patterns.

Conclusions:

  • Hemodynamic mechanisms are central to carotid bifurcation atherosclerosis.
  • A comprehensive understanding of hemodynamics and morphology can guide improved therapeutic strategies.
  • Further research into hemodynamics may enhance minimally invasive and noninvasive treatments for carotid artery disease.

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