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Suggest Treatment For Carotid Artery Occlusion
Question: I had a XXXXXXX stroke (tia) a few years back. During my examination an ultrasound found my corrotid fully blocked. The doctor said that he would leave it alone as it wouldn't be good if he tried to clear the artery. I asked if this will effect that side of my brain in any way and he said it would not; the other side will compensate. Does this sound right? Can I have the artery cleared or at least a new one grafted in?
Brief Answer:
Carotid artery stenting suggested
Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.
I have carefully gone through the details provided. It so happens that the two carotid arteries from either side in the front as well as the vertebral arteries from the back anatomose to form a ring called the Circle of Willis which supplies the various parts of the brain. So, your doctor is right that flow from the other side will compensate. However, if feasible, I would suggest for a internal carotid artery stenting. It can be done by a process called angioplasty where a catheter is inserted either at elbow or groin and through it the stent is placed at the site of the block (after clearing it of course). I suggest this since TIA occur due to microthrombi dislodged from the block and hence removal of the block is likely to be helpful.
I would not suggest for a graft.
Regards
Carotid artery stenting suggested
Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.
I have carefully gone through the details provided. It so happens that the two carotid arteries from either side in the front as well as the vertebral arteries from the back anatomose to form a ring called the Circle of Willis which supplies the various parts of the brain. So, your doctor is right that flow from the other side will compensate. However, if feasible, I would suggest for a internal carotid artery stenting. It can be done by a process called angioplasty where a catheter is inserted either at elbow or groin and through it the stent is placed at the site of the block (after clearing it of course). I suggest this since TIA occur due to microthrombi dislodged from the block and hence removal of the block is likely to be helpful.
I would not suggest for a graft.
Regards
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Sonia Raina
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