Molecular Imaging of Plaque Vulnerability

Inclusion Criteria: * Patients known with symptomatic carotid artery stenosis (≥2 mm carotid plaque on duplex ultrasound), who are scheduled in the clinical setting to undergo a carotid endarterectomy or who are referred to conservative therapy; * Age 18 years and older (no maximum age); * Informed consent by signing informed consent form regarding this study. Exclusion Criteria: * Dementia, pregnancy, nursing mothers; * Serious neurological deficits at symptomatic side (hemi paralysis, complete aphasia); * Severe heart failure NYHA III-IV and severe pulmonary dysfunction dependent on oxygen supply; * Patients with contra-indications for MRI (ferromagnetic implants like pacemakers or other electronic implants, metallic splinters in the eyes, vascular clips, claustrophobia, etc.).