2 Indications and current treatments

2 Indications and current treatments

2.1 Intracranial atherosclerosis is usually a progressive condition which narrows and hardens the blood vessels supplying the brain, limiting its blood supply. This can cause transient ischaemic attacks or permanent neurological damage (stroke).

2.2 Conservative management of atherosclerosis includes smoking cessation, and antiplatelet, lipid-lowering and antihypertensive medication. Endovascular techniques (angioplasty or stenting) may be used to dilate an arterial narrowing.

  • National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)