[Asymptomatic carotid stenosis: What is new?]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Vascular Surgery
• Public Health

Background:

• Stroke is a leading cause of disability in industrialized nations.
• Cerebral ischemia accounts for 80% of strokes in Germany, with 15% linked to extracranial internal carotid artery lesions.
• Optimal treatment for extracranial carotid stenosis is crucial, though drug therapy has reduced risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present current aspects and new recommendations for asymptomatic carotid stenosis.
• To explain key innovations in the updated 2020 multidisciplinary S3 guideline.
• To address the ongoing debate regarding the management of extracranial carotid stenoses.

Main Methods:

• Review of the updated 2020 S3 guideline for extracranial carotid stenoses.
• Analysis of current treatment strategies and risk reduction through drug therapy.
• Focus on recommendations for asymptomatic carotid stenosis management.

Main Results:

• The 2020 S3 guideline provides updated recommendations for managing extracranial carotid stenoses.
• Optimized drug therapy has significantly reduced stroke risk, influencing treatment debates.
• New insights into asymptomatic carotid stenosis management are presented.

Conclusions:

• The updated guideline offers current perspectives on managing extracranial carotid stenoses.
• The role of interventions versus drug therapy for carotid stenosis continues to be evaluated.
• Evidence-based recommendations aid in optimizing patient outcomes and reducing disability from stroke.