Atherosclerosis stratification using advanced imaging and computer-based models

The goal of the proposed project is to develop a novel tool for atherosclerosis risk stratification. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) (especially, coronary artery disease and stroke) is the leading single cause of morbidity and mortality in the Western world. Vascular atherosclerotic disease is a causative factor in a high percentage of CVD events. Widely accepted risk markers that allow predicting cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction and stroke are currently based on risk factors such as smoking, weight and blood pressure. These lifestyle factors and medical conditions are derived from population based studies and are linked to an average probability of having a CV event, but do not measure the individual’s personal risk, and can therefore result in potential overtreatment.
The main deliverable from this project will be a tool to assess the grade of atherosclerosis using multi-parametric advanced imaging in combination with biophysical computer models. Advanced imaging will be used for plaque burden measurement and plaque component characterization. In addition, biophysical models will be used to predict biomechanical properties related to atherosclerotic changes in the vascular system. For the first time, different parameters will be integrated into one clinical tool for comprehensive and individual risk stratification on different assessment levels.