Ultrasound imaging of carotid atherosclerosis in a normal population. The Tromsø Study

Abstract

In the Tromsø study, we have successfully used high resolution ultrasonography for assessing atherosclerosis development in a general population. The method is well suited for large epidemiological surveys. Methodological problems could be overcome by using highly standardized protocols, pre-study training of sonographers and readers, and off-line computer-based batch reading of digitized images. The Tromsø study has added new and important knowledge in the field of carotid atherosclerosis regarding prevalence, sex differences, risk factors and clinical significance.