Comparison of freehand B-mode and power-mode 3D ultrasound for visualisation and grading of internal carotid artery stenosis

Purpose: Currently, colour-coded duplex sonography (2D-CDS) is clinical standard for detection and grading of internal carotid artery stenosis (ICAS). However, unlike angiographic imaging modalities, 2D-CDS assesses ICAS by its haemodynamic effects rather than luminal changes. Aim of this study was to evaluate freehand 3D ultrasound (3DUS) for direct visualisation and quantification of ICAS. Materials and methods: Thirty-seven patients with 43 ICAS were examined with 2D-CDS as reference standard and with freehand B-mode respectively power-mode 3DUS (Curefab CS, Curefab Technologies GmbH, Munich, Germany). Stenot…