Carotid angioplasty and stenting are procedures designed to open narrowed or blocked carotid arteries, which are
the major blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain, face, and neck. This procedure is essential in
preventing stroke, a serious condition that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted.
The carotid arteries can become narrowed due to atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque, composed of fat,
cholesterol, calcium, and other substances, builds up on the inner walls of the arteries. This build-up can reduce
blood flow or lead to the formation of blood clots, which can then travel to the brain and cause a stroke.
Carotid angioplasty and stenting are recommended for patients who are not good candidates for carotid
endarterectomy, a more invasive surgery to remove plaque from the carotid artery. It's also an option for patients
who have recurrent carotid artery narrowing after surgery or radiation therapy to the neck.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and begins with a catheter being inserted into a blood vessel,
usually in the groin. The catheter is then guided through the vascular system to the narrowed carotid artery. Once in
place, a small balloon at the end of the catheter is inflated. This expansion helps to compress the plaque against the
artery wall, thereby widening the artery and restoring blood flow. A stent (a small wire mesh tube), is often placed in
the opened area of the artery. The stent helps to keep the artery open and decreases the chance of it narrowing
again. After the procedure, patients are usually monitored in the hospital for a short period before going home.
Recovery involves regular follow-up visits with the healthcare provider to monitor the stent and overall health.
Patients are often prescribed medications to prevent blood clots and are advised to adopt lifestyle changes to
improve their vascular health, such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise.
Carotid angioplasty and stenting are a safe and effective alternative to surgery for many patients, significantly
reducing the risk of stroke and improving overall quality of life.