Skip to main content

Table 1 Methodological characteristic-based comparison among the existing imaging modalities [68,69,70,71]

From: Imaging modalities to diagnose carotid artery stenosis: progress and prospect

Diagnostic test

Methodology

Advantage

Limitations/drawbacks

Computed tomography angiography (CTA)

Use of high-dose X-rays to get a detailed picture of the vascular system and its functioning

Patients may also have a dye injected to make it easier to spot blockages

The exam is quick

3D results

Able to identify a wide variety of abnormalities

Risk associated with radiation exposure and contrast use (e.g. allergic reaction, contrast-induced nephropathy)

Incidental findings may lead to unnecessary further tests

Presence of vessel calcification leads to an inaccurate stenosis estimation

Large area is needed to house the equipment

Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)

Make use of large magnets and radio waves to take pictures of internal organs like heart and arteries

Does not involve exposure to ionizing radiation

Not safe for patients with implants that are not MRI-conditional

Time consuming

Not suitable for patient with claustrophobia

Not widely available

Contrast associated adverse reaction (e.g. nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in patients with kidney impairment)

Duplex ultrasound (DUS)

To check the blood flow to the brain for a probable plaque formation in the carotid artery

Reasonable tool in picking up carotid atherosclerosis

Require trained personnel to perform and interpret

Reflect the presence of systemic atherosclerosis