Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate technical success, safety and restenosis rate of carotid artery stenting in patients at high risk for carotid endarterectomy. Between October 1995 and December 2009, a total of 505 patients (541 carotid artery lesions) underwent carotid stenting.
At least one risk factor for surgery (serious concomitant disease, contralateral carotid occlusion, restenosis after endarterectomy, neck radiotherapy, high stenosis location) was present in every patient. One hundred and seven stenoses (39%) were symptomatic.
Thirty three balloon-expandable and 509 self-expandable stents were implanted. Technical success was achieved in 99% of stenoses.
The overall combined 30-day rate of all-stroke and death was 1.8% (four deaths). The restenosis rate was 3% on the basis of 12-month follow-up.
Carotid artery stenting is an eff ective and safe therapeutic procedure in patients at high risk for endarterectomy.