3D geometry assessment and wall stress analysis of carotid arteries using 2D US segmentation during a controlled sweep

\u3cp\u3ePatients with a 70-99% stenosed carotid artery will undergo surgery to prevent rupture of the plaque. However, the degree of stenosis does not determine the vulnerability of the plaque, since vulnerability depends on the plaque's morphology, mechanical properties and the force acting on the plaque. Mechanical models of the carotid artery can improve decision-making of the surgeon by quantifying and mapping wall stress and strain. In this study, a method was developed to obtain the 3D geometry of the carotid artery by a 'slow' sweep over the neck (5 cm) using 2D ultrasound. Rather than using a 3D ultrasound probe, the high axial and temporal resolution are maintained.\u3c/p\u3