Interventional cardiology
Carotid Artery Stenting
A catheter-based treatment for selected severe carotid artery narrowing, performed with embolic protection.
Overview
Carotid stenosis can reduce blood flow to the brain and increase stroke risk. Stenting opens the narrowed segment and is an alternative to surgery in selected patients.
Who may be considered?
Suitability depends on symptoms, severity and anatomy of the stenosis, previous neck treatment, surgical risk and multidisciplinary assessment.
How is the procedure performed?
A protection system is positioned to capture debris, the narrowing is expanded and a self-expanding stent is implanted. Neurological and blood-pressure monitoring continue throughout.
Recovery and follow-up
Patients are observed for neurological changes and blood-pressure fluctuations. Antiplatelet treatment and ultrasound surveillance are essential.
Risks and safety
Stroke or transient ischaemic attack, bleeding, vessel injury, slow heart rate, blood-pressure changes and re-narrowing can occur.