Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 17, 2026

Modeling Stroke in Mice: Permanent Coagulation of the Distal Middle Cerebral Artery
08:14

Modeling Stroke in Mice: Permanent Coagulation of the Distal Middle Cerebral Artery

Published on: July 31, 2014

The proximal aorta: a source of stroke

E F Jones1, G A Donnan

  • 1Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.

Bailliere'S Clinical Neurology
|August 1, 1995
PubMed

Insights

Atherosclerosis in the aorta is a significant risk factor for embolic stroke, independent of other conditions. Specific plaque characteristics may increase stroke risk, warranting further investigation.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Vascular Surgery

Background:

  • Sophisticated imaging like transesophageal echocardiography and epiaortic ultrasound have highlighted the ascending aorta and aortic arch.
  • Atheroma in this region is increasingly recognized as a potential source of embolic stroke.
  • Existing studies indicate a link between aortic atheroma and cerebral ischemic events.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the association between aortic atheroma and stroke.
  • To identify specific echocardiographic features of aortic atheroma associated with increased stroke risk.
  • To discuss current and potential therapeutic strategies for patients with aortic atheroma.

Main Methods:

  • Review of observational, case-control, and controlled studies.
  • Analysis of echocardiographic findings in relation to stroke risk.
  • Synthesis of data on therapeutic options.

Main Results:

  • Aortic atheroma is an independent risk factor for stroke, separate from carotid disease, cardiac issues, and hypertension.
  • Plaque thickness > 4-5 mm, surface irregularity (ulceration), and mobile elements (thrombus) are associated with higher stroke risk.
  • Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm the prognostic value of these echocardiographic findings.

Conclusions:

  • Aortic atheroma is a significant, independent risk factor for stroke.
  • Specific plaque morphologies may predict stroke risk, but require further validation through longitudinal studies.
  • Optimal management strategies for patients with aortic atheroma remain undetermined and require prospective trials.

More Related Videos

Performing Permanent Distal Middle Cerebral with Common Carotid Artery Occlusion in Aged Rats to Study Cortical Ischemia with Sustained Disability09:11

Performing Permanent Distal Middle Cerebral with Common Carotid Artery Occlusion in Aged Rats to Study Cortical Ischemia with Sustained Disability

Published on: February 23, 2016

Surgical Approach for Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion and Reperfusion Induced Stroke in Mice10:30

Surgical Approach for Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion and Reperfusion Induced Stroke in Mice

Published on: October 20, 2016

Related Concept Videos

The Arch of Aorta01:10

The Arch of Aorta

The coronary arteries, originating from the ascending aorta, bifurcate from two sinuses located within the ascending aorta. Positioned just above the aortic semilunar valve, these sinuses house essential aortic baroreceptors and chemoreceptors, crucial for maintaining cardiac function. The left coronary artery and the right coronary artery branch off from the left posterior and anterior aortic sinuses, respectively.
Encircling the heart, the coronary arteries form a ring-like structure before...
Thoracic Aorta01:15

Thoracic Aorta

The thoracic section of the aorta begins at the T5 vertebra and extends to the T12 level at the diaphragm, initially progressing through the mediastinum to the left of the spinal column. Throughout its course in the thoracic segment, the thoracic aorta emits various offshoots known collectively as visceral and parietal branches. The branches that predominantly supply blood to visceral organs are termed visceral branches and include bronchial, pericardial, esophageal, and mediastinal arteries,...
Arteries of the Head and Neck01:26

Arteries of the Head and Neck

The human body's intricate network of arteries ensures that every organ system receives the necessary oxygen and nutrients for optimal function. The arterial network in the head and neck region is particularly complex, providing vital blood flow to the brain, eyes, and other critical structures. Prominent arteries in this region include the internal carotid arteries and the vertebral arteries.
The internal carotid arteries supply blood to the anterior portion of the cerebrum. They enter the...
Stroke: Introduction and Types01:29

Stroke: Introduction and Types

A stroke is an acute neurological event caused by the sudden disruption of cerebral blood flow, leading to rapid loss of neuronal function. Neurons depend on continuous oxygen and glucose supply, so even brief interruptions can cause irreversible injury within minutes. Strokes are classified into ischemic and hemorrhagic types.Ischemic StrokeIschemic strokes are most common and occur due to arterial occlusion, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. This leads to energy failure, ionic...
Ischemic Stroke l: Introduction01:15

Ischemic Stroke l: Introduction

Ischemic stroke is an acute cerebrovascular condition in which blood flow to a brain region is suddenly interrupted, leading to tissue infarction. Neurons depend on continuous oxygen and glucose supply, so even brief reductions in perfusion cause energy failure, ionic imbalance, and irreversible injury. Ischemic strokes are classified into thrombotic and embolic types based on their underlying mechanisms.Thrombotic MechanismsThrombotic stroke develops when a clot forms within a cerebral artery.
Hemorrhagic Stroke l: Introduction01:17

Hemorrhagic Stroke l: Introduction

A hemorrhagic stroke is an acute neurological event that occurs when a weakened cerebral blood vessel ruptures, allowing blood to accumulate within or around the brain. The sudden release of blood forms a focal hematoma that increases intracranial pressure, displaces neural tissue, and can obstruct cerebrospinal fluid pathways. These effects may be compounded by intraventricular extension of the hemorrhage, cerebral edema, or compression of adjacent structures, all of which contribute to...