Distinctive vascular changes in the retina and choroid linked to retrograde flow in the ophthalmic artery due to chronic total occlusion of the carotid artery - Report - MDSpire

Distinctive vascular changes in the retina and choroid linked to retrograde flow in the ophthalmic artery due to chronic total occlusion of the carotid artery

  • By

  • Ling Feng

  • Xiaofeng Tan

  • Le Cao

  • Hang Wang

  • Yueyue He

  • William Robert Kwapong

  • Hong Chen

  • Bo Wu

  • April 20, 2026

  • 0 min

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Distinctive vascular changes in the retina and choroid linked to retrograde flow

Overview

This study characterizes the vascular changes in the retina and choroid associated with retrograde flow in the ophthalmic artery due to chronic total occlusion of the carotid artery. Findings indicate significant reductions in retinal vessel density while choroidal parameters remain relatively preserved, highlighting the distinct hemodynamic responses of these vascular beds.

Background

Chronic total occlusion (CTO) of the internal carotid artery poses significant risks, including ischemic stroke and cognitive decline, due to compromised cerebral perfusion. The ophthalmic artery serves as a critical collateral pathway in this context, and understanding its flow dynamics is essential for assessing ocular health. This study aims to elucidate the impact of retrograde flow on retinal and choroidal vascular profiles.

Data Highlights

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Key Findings

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Clinical Implications

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Conclusion

Retrograde flow in the ophthalmic artery due to carotid artery occlusion leads to significant retinal microvascular loss while paradoxically expanding choroidal vasculature. These findings enhance our understanding of ocular vascular responses in chronic carotid occlusion.

References

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  4. Endovascular Retrograde Revascularization in a Case of Chronic Total Occlusion of the Internal Carotid Artery
  5. Reversed flow in the ophthalmic artery due to internal carotid artery obstruction | Medicina Intensiva
  6. Editor's Choice - European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) 2023 Clinical Practice Guidelines
  7. Hemodynamics and imaging in chronic internal carotid artery occlusion
  8. Guidelines and clinical consensus (2025–2026)
  9. Ocular Color Doppler Ultrasound (OCDUS) in Diagnosis and Monitoring of Ophthalmological, Cerebrovascular and Systemic Diseases: A Narrative Review

Original Source(s)

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