Endovascular carotid revascularization is a minimally invasive procedure used to restore blood flow in the carotid arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the brain. It is performed to treat carotid artery stenosis (narrowing) caused by plaque buildup (atherosclerosis).
Prevents ischemic strokes by removing or bypassing blockages.
Improves blood flow to the brain.
Reduces the risk of future strokes.
For patients with moderate to severe carotid artery stenosis (≥50%).
Individuals at high risk for open surgery.
Those who have had a minor stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).
Most common type of endovascular revascularization.
A catheter is inserted into the artery.
A stent (small mesh tube) is placed in the narrowed artery.
The stent holds the artery open, restoring blood flow.
Less invasive alternative to CAS.
A small incision is made at the base of the neck.
A flow-reversal system temporarily redirects blood flow away from the brain.
A stent is placed to keep the artery open.
Used for patients at high risk for traditional surgery.
A balloon-tipped catheter is inserted into the carotid artery.
The balloon is inflated to widen the narrowed artery.
May be performed alone or before stenting.
Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body.
Facial drooping or asymmetry.
Slurred or impaired speech (dysarthria).
Loss of coordination or balance.
Blurred or temporary vision loss.
Double vision or difficulty focusing.
"Mini-strokes" with temporary stroke symptoms.
Resolve within 24 hours but indicate a high stroke risk.
Severe headache.
Confusion or difficulty understanding speech.
Sudden dizziness or lack of coordination.
Narrowing of the carotid artery due to plaque buildup.
Reduces blood flow to the brain.
Increases the risk of stroke.
Cholesterol and fat deposits cause plaque formation.
Hardens and narrows the artery.
Prior stroke or TIA due to carotid artery blockage.
Increased risk of future strokes.
Fragments of plaque or clots can break off.
Travel to the brain and cause a stroke.
Low-fat, low-cholesterol diet.
Increase fiber, fruits, and vegetables.
Limit saturated fats and processed foods.
150 minutes of moderate activity weekly.
Improves cardiovascular health.
Reduces plaque buildup.
Improves circulation.
Blood pressure control prevents arterial damage.
Cholesterol-lowering medications reduce plaque formation.
Antiplatelet medications (aspirin or clopidogrel) prevent clot formation.
Reduces stroke risk.
Antiplatelet agents (aspirin and clopidogrel) to prevent clotting.
Statins to lower cholesterol.
Blood pressure medications to stabilize hypertension.
Minimally invasive techniques to restore blood flow.
Carotid stenting, TCAR, or angioplasty.
Carotid ultrasound: Identifies artery narrowing.
CT or MRI angiography: Provides detailed artery images.
Blood tests: Check for clotting disorders.
Local anesthesia applied.
Catheter inserted into the femoral artery.
Stent placed in the narrowed carotid artery.
Improves blood flow.
Small neck incision made.
Flow-reversal system redirects blood flow.
Stent placed to open the artery.
Balloon catheter inserted.
Balloon inflated to widen the artery.
May be followed by stent placement.
Patients monitored for 1–2 days.
Vital signs and neurological status checked.
Antiplatelet therapy to prevent blood clots.
Statins to reduce cholesterol.
Light activity allowed after discharge.
No heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 1 week.
Follow-up ultrasound to monitor artery patency.
