Carotid artery stenting (CAS) is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to treat carotid artery stenosis, which is a narrowing of the carotid artery in the neck. This narrowing is be caused by the buildup of plaque in carotid artery, gradually leading to its near total occlusion. If not treated, it causes increased the risk of ischemic stroke.
During CAS, a small, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into an artery in the groin or arm and threaded up to the carotid artery in the neck. A small balloon on the end of the catheter is inflated to widen the narrowed portion of the artery, and a small metal mesh tube called a stent is then placed in the artery to keep it open.
CAS is generally considered a safe and effective treatment option for carotid artery stenosis, but like any medical procedure, it does carry some risks, such as bleeding and stroke. The decision to undergo CAS should be made after a thorough evaluation by a Interventional Radiologist, taking into consideration factors such as the severity of the stenosis, the patient’s overall health, and their risk of complications.