Association Between Carotid-Cerebral Pulse Wave Velocity and Acute Ischemic Stroke: Clinical Trial Protocol

Background: Pulse wave velocity is commonly regarded as the most effective and noninvasive indicator for evaluating arterial stiffness, while increased arterial stiffness is known to be related to atherosclerosis, which has been proved to play a significant role on the onset of acute ischemic stroke. However, it is still only used in the assessment of central and peripheral arteries. Our previous studies have found that carotid-cerebral pulse wave velocity measured using transcranial Doppler may be a promising method for the assessment of human cerebral arterial stiffness. This trial was designed to examine the association between carotid-cerebral pulse wave velocity and acute ischemic stroke. Methods: In a single-center, single-arm, prospective clinical trial, patients with acute ischemic stroke who had anterior circulation infarcts confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging are eligible to receive measurement of carotid-cerebral pulse wave velocity, which is measured in the supine position with transcranial Doppler that using 2-MHz and 4-MHz ultrasound probes by 2 experienced operators. Subjects will be received follow-up for 1 year. Vascular and nonvascular death at follow-up will be assessed as primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes include intracerebral hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, transient ischemic attack, recurrence or aggravation of ischemic stroke. Conclusion: This trial will be the first to evaluate carotid-cerebral pulse wave velocity in patients with acute ischemic stroke using transcranial Doppler. The results may provide more valuable theoretical basis for the prevention, treatment, and prognosis of acute ischemic stroke.