Effectiveness of elective stenting of common carotid artery lesions in preventing stroke

We report our experience with elective stenting of lesions only involving the origin and proximal common carotid arteries. In 37 patients (42 vessels), procedural success was 95% (40 of 42 vessels) with 2 minor strokes (4.70%) and no major strokes. Follow-up for a mean of 24 months showed 1 transient ischemic attack, 2 contralateral minor strokes, 1 cerebral hemorrhage associated with long-term warfarin therapy, and a 5.1% restenosis rate. This technique is an excellent alternative for treating proximal and ostial lesions of the common carotid artery. (C) 2003 by Excerpta Medica, Inc.