Carotid artery stenosis: a guide for clinicians
Kamran Namjouyan1, Jonathan A Tangsrivimol2,3, Affan Rizwan4
1Department of Internal Medicine, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA, USA.
Future Cardiology
|July 23, 2025
Summary
Carotid artery stenosis (CS) management is crucial for preventing ischemic stroke. This review examines current clinical guidelines for diagnosing and treating CS, balancing intervention risks and benefits.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Carotid artery stenosis (CS) is a significant risk factor for ischemic stroke, a major cause of death and disability.
- Prevalence is notable in the general population, with risk factors including age, hypertension, and smoking.
- Polyvascular disease is common in patients with atherosclerotic disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and examine current clinical guidelines for managing carotid artery stenosis.
- To provide clinicians with an updated approach to CS diagnosis and treatment.
- To discuss the balance between intervention risks and benefits.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of existing literature and clinical guidelines.
- Examination of diagnostic modalities, focusing on Duplex ultrasound (DUS).
- Analysis of therapeutic strategies and decision-making processes.
Main Results:
- CS diagnosis is critical for stroke prevention.
- Early recognition via imaging like DUS is essential.
- Management requires careful consideration of evolving treatment options.
Conclusions:
- Current guidelines offer a framework for CS management.
- Clinicians must weigh intervention risks against potential benefits.
- Ongoing evaluation of diagnostic and therapeutic advancements is necessary.
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