The Role of Large Artery Plaque Imaging Features in Predicting Inflammation and Cognition

Inclusion Criteria: • Patients ≥18 years old and plans for carotid endarterectomy. Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with carotid occlusion will be excluded, due to one carotid contributing to both right and left brain blood supply. * Other known sources of cardioembolism, including atrial fibrillation, mechanical heart valve, left atrial or ventricular thrombus or intracardiac mass, endocarditis, EF \<30% * Known stroke mimics including multiple sclerosis or brain tumor * MRI contraindications per ACR guidelines, including patients with pacemakers, renal failure with eGFR\<30 ml/min/1.73m2, and contrast allergy * \[18F\]Flutemetamol contraindications per manufacturer guidelines, including patients with prior reactions * Known stage IV malignancy * Pregnancy