Experience at a Tertiary Center and Short-term Results in Carotid Artery Stent Implantation

Abstract

Introduction: Patients with carotid artery stenosis are at increased risk for stroke and cardiovascular death. Here, we aimed to present the short-term results of carotid artery endovascular procedures performed at our tertiary center. Patients and Methods: Totally, 220 patients [169 males, 51 females; median age, 66 (45-83) years] who underwent carotid artery stent (CAS) placement were included in the study. Post-procedural myocardial infarction (MI); major adverse events, including stroke and death; and procedural hypotension and transient cerebral ischemic events were evaluated in the 1-month period. Results: Totally, 231 carotid stenoses and stents were implanted in all patients. Eleven patients (5%) were treated using staged CAS owing to bilateral carotid artery disease. The technical success rate was 97%. One (0.4%) patient died; however, no MI was observed during successful CAS implantation. Two patients (0.9%) developed ischemic cerebrovascular events 24 hours after the procedure. Totally, 5 patients (2.2%) had a transient ischemic attack in the 1-month period after the procedure. Eight patients (3.6%) developed procedural hypotension. No patient had hyperperfusion syndrome. Conclusion: CAS placement can be safely performed with low major adverse cerebrovascular events and high success rates in symptomatic or asymptomatic patients.