Stroke is the third leading cause of death in North America and the leading cause
of permanent disability. The most common cause is carotid atherosclerosis leading
to cerebral ischemia or thromboembolism. Carotid endarterectomy has been shown to
benefit a select group of patients by reducing the long-term stroke risk. Carotid
angioplasty and stenting have recently emerged as a controversial alternative to endarterectomy.
In this article, we explore the rationale behind the treatment of carotid stenosis,
critically examine the evidence in support of endarterectomy, and review the current
status of carotid angioplasty and stenting.
Carotid endarterectomy - carotid angioplasty - carotid stenting - stroke
