Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound Identifies Carotid Artery Plaque Rupture Leading to Stroke: A Case Report

Edited: Carotid artery plaque rupture leading to stroke is a common neurological emergency that is typically diagnosed using CTA and DSA examinations. However, we present a unique case where contrast-enhanced ultrasound was able to clearly identify the cause of stroke as the rupture of a vulnerable plaque in the carotid artery, resulting in the formation of a floating thrombus. This rare application of contrast-enhanced ultrasound highlights its practicality in identifying carotid artery plaque rupture leading to stroke. Furthermore, contrast-enhanced ultrasound offers several advantages, including convenience, speed, lack of radiation exposure, non-nephrotoxicity, real-time imaging, and the ability to perform bedside examinations.