Multicenter Validation Study of Real Time (B Mode) Ultrasound, Arteriography, and Pathology: III. Sensitivity and Specificity Assessment

One of the most promising technologies for the study of atherosclerosis is high-resolution, realtime ultrasound. Developed in large part over the last decade, this methodology has been successful in imaging a variety of body organs including blood vessels. It is non-invasive and associated with minimal risk and radiation. If ultrasound images are an accurate representation of arterial anatomy they could provide an excellent method of identifying and following changes of atherosclerotic disease. To test this methodology, the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute sponsored a multi-center validation study of realtime ultrasound in the carotid and ileofemoral arteries in human subjects. This report summarizes the comparisons made among ultrasound, angiography, and pathology in evaluation of atherosclerosis of the carotid bifurcation.