Carotid Angioplasty and Stent placement

Overview

Blood vessels that bring blood to our face and brain are called the carotid arteries. The carotid artery is on each side of the neck. The flow of blood in the artery can be partly or totally blocked by fatty material called plaque. Partial blockage is called carotid artery stenosis where the arteries are narrowed. A blockage in the carotid artery can reduce the supply of blood to the brain. In some cases, the part of a plaque can break off and block off another artery which can lead to a stroke. To treat carotid artery blockage or narrowing there are two procedures:-
•        Carotid angioplasty with stent placement.
•        Surgery to remove plaque buildup.

Who needs Carotid angioplasty and stenting?

Carotid angioplasty and stenting have developed as a good alternative to surgery. This procedure is recommended to patients in the following cases:-
•        In case if the patients are ill to have carotid endarterectomy.
•        If the patients have had neck or carotid surgery in the past.
•        If the patients have had radiation to the neck.
•        The location of the narrowing in the carotid artery makes the surgery harder.

How is Carotid angioplasty and stenting performed?

Carotid angioplasty and stenting procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The cardiac surgeon makes an incision in the groin of the patient. The surgeon then places a catheter which is a flexible tube through the incision made into the artery. The surgeon then moves the catheter carefully to the neck to the blockages area in the carotid artery. The surgeons also use Moving x-ray pictures to see the artery and guide the catheter to the correct position. Next, the surgeon moves a wire through the catheter to the blockage. Another catheter with has a very small balloon attached to the end is pushed over the wire into the blockage. The balloon is then inflated. The inflated balloon presses against the inside wall of the artery. This opens the artery and allows the blood to flow in the brain. Depending on the severity a stent is also placed in the blocked area. The stent is also inserted at the same time as the balloon catheter. It expands with the balloon. The stent is left in place to help keep the artery open. The surgeon then deflated and removes the balloon.

Risks of carotid angioplasty and stenting

Risks and complication of carotid angioplasty and stent placement which depend on factors such as age and overall health of the patient:-
•        Allergic reaction to dye.
•        Blood clots.
•        Brain damage.
•        Bleeding at the site of surgery.
•        Clogging of the inside of the stent.
•        Kidney failure.
•        Heart attack.
•        Stroke.
•        Blockage of the carotid artery over time.
•        Seizures.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Carotid artery angioplasty and stenting procedure helps the patient in lowering the chance of having a stroke. Patients who undergo this procedure are recommended to make lifestyle changes which can help them in preventing building up of plaque, blood clots or other problems that are related to carotid arteries.

Carotid angioplasty and stenting In India

Carotid angioplasty and stenting surgery are available in India with the latest technology. Carotid angioplasty and stenting procedure is quite expensive in western countries whereas in India this procedure is available at quite affordable costs. Travcure medical tourism company in India has a large network of associated cardiac surgeons and healthcare facilities in India. Travcure provides customized packages to patients for cardiac surgeries. Travcure also offers a wide range of services to patient’s right from their arrival till departure.