In the case of a narrowed carotid artery, a stroke to prevent, there are two methods of treatment: a Stent or surgery. Researchers at the University of Basel have compared both methods and found that they come with similar risks to comparable results.
For the treatment of a narrowed carotid artery, two methods are applied: In an Operation, arteriosclerotic deposits can be removed and the constriction will be eliminated. The second possibility is the Insertion of a small tube, called Stent, which holds the narrowed area open.
Scientists at the University of Basel have studied in an international cooperation data from four studies involving over 4,700 patients to determine which approach led to better results. They found that the risk of a stroke was a stroke after the procedure in both methods is comparable and less than one percent per year was: "In the case of two therapies all can expect most patients to bleiben" in the next ten years, of a stroke spared;, Prof. Leo Bonati, who led the investigation.
During the surgery for placement of a stent, there was a three percent higher risk for stroke, the age-dependent: While the risk was not increased in younger individuals, while it increased with age. Especially for people up to 65 years of age, a Stent could, in the opinion of the authors that an appropriate Alternative to surgery.
A narrowing of the carotid artery due to atherosclerosis can lead to the formation of blood clots. The carotid artery supplies the brain with blood, and when clots dissolve, it can cause a stroke with serious consequences.
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