Carotid artery stenting with neuroprotection: assessing the learning curve and treatment outcome

CAS with neuroprotection can provide excellent treatment outcomes. Our experience demonstrates a procedure-associated learning curve as evidenced by decreased procedure-related complications, fluoroscopic time, and contrast volume occurring with increased physician experience. Procedural success was also enhanced partly by endovascular device refinement and an improved anticoagulation regimen. Successful CAS outcomes can be achieved once physicians overcome the initial procedure-related learning curve.