Effectiveness of elective stenting of common carotid artery lesions in preventing stroke

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Interventional Cardiology
• Neurology

Background:

• Carotid artery disease, particularly ostial and proximal common carotid artery lesions, poses a significant stroke risk.
• Surgical endarterectomy is a traditional treatment, but endovascular options are increasingly explored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of elective stenting for common carotid artery origin and proximal lesions.
• To assess procedural success rates and long-term outcomes, including stroke and restenosis.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 37 patients (42 vessels) undergoing elective stenting.
• Focus on lesions involving the origin and proximal segments of the common carotid artery.
• Analysis of procedural success, peri-procedural complications, and long-term follow-up data.

Main Results:

• Procedural success rate of 95% (40 of 42 vessels).
• Low incidence of peri-procedural complications: 2 minor strokes (4.70%) and no major strokes.
• Mean follow-up of 24 months revealed 1 transient ischemic attack, 2 contralateral minor strokes, and 1 cerebral hemorrhage (associated with warfarin).
• Restenosis rate of 5.1% observed during follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Elective stenting is a safe and effective treatment for proximal and ostial common carotid artery lesions.
• The procedure demonstrates high technical success and favorable long-term outcomes with manageable complication rates.
• This endovascular technique offers a valuable alternative for managing specific carotid artery pathologies.