Background and Objectives: Detection and evaluation of carotid plaque using conventional two-dimensional (2D) carotid ultrasonography is not sufficient for evaluating the three-dimensional extent of the plaque. We have therefore been applying the latest technique of three-dimensional (3D) ultrasonography to observe the three-dimensional aspects of carotid plaque. The present study was performed to compare morphological changes in plaque before and during treatment with fluvastatin using 3D ultrasonography.
Methods: The subjects were 13 patients with carotid plaque (M:F = 9:4,65 ± 11 years old). Serum LDL cholesterol levels in these patients exceeded 140mg/dl. 3D plaque images were acquired using a VOLUSON 730 expert (GE Healthcare) with a 3D/4D probe. Volume of plaque, axial plaque area and maximum intima-media thickness (Max-IMT) were measured and compared every 3 months during administration of fluvastatin at 20mg/day.
Results: Carotid plaque volume (0.509 ± 0.576cm3) was reduced at 3 months after the start of fluvastatin administration (0.426 ± O.537cm3 p = 0.001). Axial plaque area (0.251 ± 0.145cm2) was reduced at g months (0.229 ± 0.158cm2, p = 0.039), and Max-IMT (2.649 ± 1.036mm) was reduced at 12 months (2.469 ± 0.997mm, p=0.010).
Conclusions: 3D ultrasonography is useful for monitoring the three-dimensional aspects of carotid plaque with high reliability. The present findings indicate that fluvastatin improves the morphology of atherosclerotic carotid plaque by reducing its volume.
