Carotid Artery Stenting
Carotid artery stenting is a minimally invasive procedure that opens narrowed carotid arteries — the major blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain. By placing a small mesh tube (stent), we restore normal blood flow and significantly reduce stroke risk.
Understanding Carotid Artery Disease
Carotid artery disease occurs when fatty deposits (plaques) clog the blood vessels that deliver blood to the brain and head. The buildup of plaques is called atherosclerosis. Severe narrowing (stenosis) of the carotid arteries significantly increases the risk of stroke. If a piece of plaque breaks off, it can travel to smaller brain arteries and cause a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).
Signs & Symptoms
Often asymptomatic until a stroke or TIA occurs
Transient ischemic attack (mini-stroke) — temporary numbness, speech difficulty, or vision changes
Dizziness or loss of balance
Sudden severe headache
Bruit (whooshing sound) detected by a doctor using a stethoscope on the neck
One-sided weakness or numbness that resolves within minutes to hours
How Carotid Stenting Works
Pre-Procedure Assessment
Detailed imaging with carotid Doppler ultrasound, CT angiography, or MR angiography to assess the degree of stenosis . Risk stratification and medical optimization before the procedure.
Embolic Protection
A small filter device (embolic protection device) is placed beyond the narrowing to catch any debris that may break free during the procedure, preventing stroke.
Balloon Angioplasty & Stent Placement
A balloon catheter is used to widen the narrowed artery. A self-expanding metal mesh stent is then placed to keep the artery open permanently. The procedure is guided by real-time X-ray imaging.
Post-Procedure Care
The patient is monitored for 24-48 hours. Blood pressure management is critical. Dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin + clopidogrel) is prescribed for a duration to prevent stent clotting.
Recovery After Carotid Stenting
Carotid stenting is minimally invasive with generally faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery (carotid endarterectomy).
Same Day
Most patients can sit up and eat within hours. Groin puncture site monitored for bleeding.
1-2 Days
Hospital discharge if no complications. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity.
1-2 Weeks
Return to normal daily activities. Follow-up Doppler ultrasound to check stent patency.
3-6 Months
Regular follow-ups with imaging. Lifelong antiplatelet medication and cardiovascular risk management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs carotid stenting?
Patients with significant carotid artery narrowing (generally >70% stenosis in symptomatic patients or >80% in asymptomatic patients) who are at risk for stroke.
How long does the stent last?
Carotid stents are designed to be permanent and typically last a lifetime. Long-term patency rates exceed 90% in most studies.
Is it better than surgery?
Carotid stenting is preferred for patients who are high-risk for surgery, have prior neck surgery or radiation, or have anatomically challenging lesions. Both procedures have excellent outcomes in experienced hands.
Related Treatments
Need Expert Consultation?
Dr. Hilal Ahmad Ganaie and the team are here to help. Book an appointment or reach out via WhatsApp for immediate assistance.