Ultrasound of aortic atherosclerosis

In this ultrasound video of the aorta, see how atherosclerosis can lead to stroke.

In atherosclerosis, plaque deposits — consisting of fats, cholesterol and other materials — gradually accumulate in the lining of the arteries. Sometimes, as seen in this ultrasound of the aorta, the plaques will fracture at an edge, forming a mobile flap of plaque debris that may break off and lead to stroke.