BACKGROUND Atherosclerosis is a progressive inflammatory disease characterized by plaque formation due to subintimal lipid accumulation in the arteries, which eventually leads to cardiovascular events. Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is commonly performed to reduce mortality due to plaque accumulation. Currently, CEA candidates are selected based on plaque burden, but ultrasound (US) pixel grayscale analysis of plaque lesions may better identify plaque composition and vulnerability to rupture.
