Plaque Neovascularization: An Independent Risk Factor for Vulnerable Plaque Rupture

Neovascularization within plaques has been identified as an independent risk factor for the rupture of vulnerable plaques. This means that the presence of new blood vessels within a plaque can significantly increase its likelihood of rupturing, even if the plaque itself doesn't appear particularly dangerous. This finding has important implications for understanding and managing cardiovascular disease, as plaque rupture is a major cause of heart attacks and strokes.