Imaging 61CuATSM Uptake in Atherosclerotic Plaque Using PET-CT
Imaging 61CuATSM Uptake in Atherosclerotic Plaque Using PET-CT
The build up of plaque in the wall of the artery supplying blood to the brain poses a risk of
 stroke when the plaques become unstable and fragile. It is important to determine which
 patients are most at risk so that surgery can be performed. There is evidence that the risk
 is greatest when these plaques become oxygen deficient (hypoxic). The investigators wish to
 use PET imaging to identify hypoxic plaque, to help decide whether and when to perform
 surgery. The investigators have developed radiotracers (imaging agents) for this purpose, and
 this study is to determine whether they will work in patients.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Male/Female patients who are 55yrs or older and for whom carotid endarterectomy is
 clinically indicated and a decision has been made to perform a carotid endarterectomy.

 -  Normal liver and adequate renal function. Assessed by measuring eGFR (>50ml/min) and
 creatinine (<130μmol/L)

 -  Life expectancy > 12 weeks

 -  Patients should be able to tolerate head/neck mask as well as lying in the PET-CT
 scanner

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  Abnormal liver and renal function (eGFR <50ml/min, Creatinine >130μmol/L)

 -  Patient unwilling to provide written informed consent