The Distinct Relationships of Carotid Plaque Disease and Carotid Intima-Media Thickness with Left Ventricular Function

These findings demonstrate that subclinical carotid plaque disease rather than IMT is more closely related to LV systolic function and LV filling pressure. These data support the application of carotid ultrasonography beyond cardiovascular disease risk prediction, while providing insight into potential mechanisms underlying the development of subclinical LV dysfunction.