Advances in Carotid Artery Revascularization

Carotid stenosis is seen in about 10% of patients with ischemic stroke. Many studies have been performed that provide insight into the natural history, diagnosis, and optimal management of carotid disease. Both medical management and surgery have advanced to the point that patients and their providers have many options when considering treatment. Over the last several years, carotid artery stenting has been shown to be a viable treatment choice in selected patients. Both stenting and endarterectomy are superior to medical management alone in stroke prevention when patients are properly selected. In this article we try to review the most recent data regarding the two procedures in the treatment of carotid stenosis and also discuss the controversies in carotid artery revascularization.