Stroke Prevention | Carotid Artery Stenosis
Stroke Prevention
A stroke happens when blood flow to a part of the brain stops. A stroke is sometimes called a "brain attack." If blood flow is stopped for longer than a few seconds, the brain cannot get blood and oxygen. Brain cells can die, causing permanent damage. to learn more about stroke , click here.
Eisenhower's Stroke Center offers comprehensive care to all stroke patients. A multidisciplinary team approach ensures the best possible care of patients throughout the process. To learn more about Eisenhower Health Stroke Center, click here.
What is Carotid Artery Stenosis?
Carotid artery stenosis is narrowing in the arteries that supply blood to the brain, most commonly due to atherosclerotic plaque build up.
How do I know I have Carotid Artery Stenosis and should I be screened?
Carotid Artery Stenosis is easily diagnosed with a evaluation by your vascular specialist and a simple noninvasive ultrasound. Patients with history of coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, smoking history,should be screened with ultrasound.
Is This Treatable?
Just because plaque is identified in your carotid artery does not necessarily mean you need surgery. However you consult with your cardiovascular specialist for optimal medical management and assessment if stroke reduction surgery is warranted…….
- Quitting Smoking: This is important for managing CAD and for your overall health.
- Optimum medical management is often a combination of medications that can help slow the progression of CAD and reduce the risk of stroke. Aspirin and other medications (like clopidogrel, prasugrel, ticagrelor) that “thin” the blood decrease your risk of stroke. Medications that lower your cholesterol and blood pressure are also commonly prescribed to keep the blockage from getting worse. Your doctor may adjust your medication over time.
- Transcarotid Revascularization (TCAR) (link to separate TCAR page) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to treat blocked carotid arteries (which supply blood to the brain) by placing a stent to stabilize plaque, using a unique flow-reversal technique to protect the brain from dislodged debris, and reducing stroke risk, especially for high-risk patients who can't tolerate traditional open surgery (carotid endarterectomy).
- Carotid Endarterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove plaque buildup to improve blood flow and significantly lower the risk of stroke or TIA. The surgery involves an incision in the neck, temporarily diverting blood flow, opening the artery, scraping out the plaque, and then stitching it closed, often with a patch, restoring normal circulation to the brain.
- Transfemoral Carotid Stenting is a minimally invasive procedure using a catheter from the groin (femoral artery) to reach and open a narrowed carotid artery in the neck, preventing strokes, by deploying a stent to hold it open after balloon angioplasty and using a filter to catch debris.
Intravascular Lithotripsy Trial Information
