Carotid artery disease occurs when plaque clogs the carotid arteries, which are responsible for carrying blood to the brain and head. Narrowing of these arteries can lead to serious health issues, including stroke. The good news is that with proper carotid artery disease treatment, the risk of stroke can be reduced by 70 to 80  percent. At The Vascular and Interventional Centre, we are committed to providing the most advanced and effective treatments for this condition.

Lifestyle Changes for Carotid Artery Disease

The first step in carotid artery disease treatment often involves making significant lifestyle adjustments. These changes can prevent the disease from progressing and improve overall health. Recommended lifestyle changes include:

• Quit smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for carotid artery disease.
• Control high blood pressure: Maintaining healthy blood pressure levels is crucial.
• Control diabetes: Proper management of diabetes can help prevent further damage to the arteries.
• Regular checkups: Routine visits with your doctor can help monitor your condition.
• Manage cholesterol: Regular cholesterol checks and treatment, if necessary, are vital.
• Heart-healthy diet: A balanced diet supports cardiovascular health.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Keeping a healthy weight reduces strain on your arteries.
• Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week.
• Limit alcohol: Moderate alcohol consumption is advised (one drink per day for women, two for men).

These lifestyle modifications, while simple, play a significant role in managing carotid artery disease.

Medications to Reduce Stroke Risk

In addition to lifestyle changes, certain medications can significantly lower the risk of stroke. Your doctor may prescribe:

• Antiplatelet medications: Aspirin and clopidogrel (Plavix) help prevent blood clots.
• Cholesterol-lowering drugs: Statins help reduce cholesterol levels and prevent plaque buildup.
• Blood pressure medications: These help manage high blood pressure, reducing strain on the arteries.
• Blood thinners: In some cases, warfarin (Coumadin) may be prescribed to prevent blood clots.

These medications are essential tools in preventing stroke and managing carotid artery disease.

Medical Procedures for Carotid Artery Disease

When lifestyle changes and medications aren’t enough, medical procedures may be necessary to improve blood flow to the brain. Two common procedures are:

Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA)

CEA is a surgical procedure that involves removing plaque and diseased portions of the carotid artery. During CEA, an incision is made in the neck to access the blocked artery, the plaque is removed, and the artery is repaired to restore blood flow. CEA has been a standard treatment for carotid artery disease, especially for those with severe narrowing or a history of TIAs or mild strokes.

Carotid Artery Stenting (CAS)

CAS is a less invasive procedure that involves inserting a catheter through a small puncture in the groin to reach the blocked carotid artery. A balloon is then inflated to open the artery, and a stent is placed to keep it open. The stent acts as a scaffold to support the artery and prevent it from narrowing again. Some stents are coated with medication to further reduce the risk of re-blockage.

Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR)

TCAR is a less invasive surgical option that involves a smaller incision compared to traditional CEA. Studies suggest TCAR is associated with a lower risk of stroke or death compared to traditional CAS.

Choosing the Right Procedure

The choice between CEA, CAS, and TCAR depends on several factors, including the severity of the blockage, your overall health, and your medical history. Research indicates that CEA may be safer than CAS in some cases, but CAS can be a good option for those who cannot undergo CEA. TCAR has demonstrated promising results, particularly in reducing the risk of stroke.

Clinical Trials and Research

The Vascular and Interventional Centre is dedicated to staying at the forefront of carotid artery disease treatment. We actively participate in clinical trials and research to develop new and improved therapies. Clinical trials like CREST and CREST II have compared various stroke prevention methods, contributing to our understanding of the best treatment approaches.

A Multidisciplinary Approach

Our center employs a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including electrophysiologists, interventional cardiologists, lipidologists, surgeons, and rehabilitation professionals. This collaborative approach ensures that you receive comprehensive and personalized care. We work closely with you to understand your specific needs and develop a treatment plan that is tailored to you.

Why Choose The Vascular and Interventional Centre?

Choosing the right treatment for carotid artery disease is a critical decision. At The Vascular and Interventional Centre, we offer:

• Advanced treatments: We provide the latest and most modern approaches to treating carotid artery disease, including minimally invasive and endovascular surgeries.
• Expert team: Our diverse team of specialists is dedicated to delivering high-quality care.
• Research-driven: Our commitment to research ensures that you benefit from the most innovative treatments available.
• Personalized care: We take the time to understand your individual needs and develop a customized treatment plan.

If you or a loved one is dealing with carotid artery disease, don’t wait to seek treatment. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help!