ULTRASOUND IN CLINICAL-TRIALS OF ATHEROSCLEROSIS

Experts in the field of clinical trials in atherosclerosis using ultra sound reviewed the problems inherent in this type of research in a mee ting at Mougins, France in September 1993. Intima-media thickness (LMT ) and plaque size can be used to reflect early and late signs of ather osclerosis. A series of methodological questions must be addressed bef ore starting clinical trials in this field. Whether near- or far-wall IMT measurements should be used, whether IMT should be used as inclusi on criteria, the IMT progression rate, and the imputation of missing d ata were amongst the specific items discussed: the validity and reprod ucibility of IMT and plaque size estimation were also questions. The r esults of the meeting are presented as five separate papers, and an In troduction highlights the main points of the discussions. It is the ho pe of the authors that the presentations can be used by other investig ators when planning and implementing trials in this field.