Technical Tips for Carotid Angioplasty and Stenting

Angioplasty and stenting of the carotid artery has become an accepted procedure in properly selected patients with carotid artery stenosis. The potential for devastating neurologic complications and significant hemodynamic changes separates endovascular treatment of the carotid artery from other percutaneous peripheral vascular procedures. In this article, the technique for carotid artery angioplasty and stenting is described and the strategies for management of the hemodynamic changes occuring with carotid stenting are reviewed.