Carotid angioplasty: point of view of a french surgeon

Real evolution or just a fashion? In spite of 20 years experience, carotid angioplasty is still debated and even rejected by vascular surgeons - at least in France. Purists are easily persuasive, carotid surgery is not only beautiful, but also safe and effective. Is surgery threatened by carotid angioplasty? We have to say no, the real threat is against drugs control of atheroma plaque. Carotid angioplasty is on the way of treatments natural evolution related to all sectors. It's a way of thinking slowly infiltrating patients mind but also practitioners and Medias. This is unavoidable. Surgeons made a mistake in opposing this technique, instead of trying to adjust it, master it, or better to control it; but surgeons are not politicians! There is no ambiguity for who knows to practice - as usual: it has to be learned. Secret is in patient selection. There is no doubt that excellent angioplasty indications can avoid surgical disasters.