There is not enough evidence about how well this procedure works or how safe it is. So it can only be done with special arrangements. This means you will have regular appointments afterwards to check how well it is working or if it has caused problems.
The main arteries in the neck (the carotid arteries) can become narrowed by fatty deposits (extracranial carotid stenosis). Blood clots can form on these fatty deposits. Fragments can then detach and lodge in thinner arteries that supply blood to parts of the brain. This can block the arteries and cause a stroke or a transient ischaemic attack (sometimes called a ‘mini stroke’). If the carotid stenosis is not causing any health problems, it is called asymptomatic.
In this procedure, a short, wire mesh tube that acts like a scaffold called a stent is used to widen the narrowed carotid artery. A fine wire is inserted through the skin (percutaneous) and into an artery (transarterial), usually in the leg, and passed up into the carotid artery. The stent is then moved into place along the wire.
Is this procedure right for me?
You should be included in making decisions about your care.
Your healthcare professionals should explain the risks and benefits of this procedure and how it is done. They should discuss your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. They should offer you more information about the procedure. Your family or carers can be involved if you want or need them to be.
You will be asked to decide whether you agree (consent) to have the procedure. Find out more about giving consent to treatment on the NHS website.
Some questions to think about
- How many appointments will I need?
- What are the possible benefits? How likely am I to get them?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- Will I have to stay in hospital?
- What happens if it does not work or something goes wrong?
- What happens if I do not want the procedure?
- Are other treatments available?
Information and support
The NHS webpage on carotid endarterectomy may be a good place to find out more.
You can search the NHS website for information about consultants and hospitals that offer this procedure.
- NICE's information on interventional procedures guidance explains what an interventional procedure is and how we assess it.
- NICE’s information on interventional procedures recommendations explains what special arrangements are.
You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.
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