Angioplasty and stenting of the cervical carotid bifurcation: report of a 4-year series

Over a period of 46 months, 71 cervical carotid bifurcation stenotic lesions were treated by angioplasty and/or stenting. The stenosis was atherosclerotic in 61 cases, post-surgical or post-radiation in ten cases. The initial technical choice was that of primary stenting without cerebral protection; this attitude has been modified in recent cases by use of a protection balloon or filter. A technical success rate of 98% was achieved (71 cases treated out of 73 attempted). From the angiographic point of view, in all cases good restoration of the luminal diameter was obtained. There were three completely regressive minor strokes (4.2%), and one major stroke (1.4%). A follow-up of at least I year is available for 50 patients; a restenosis of less than 50% occurred in four (8%). In conclusion, angioplasty and stenting of the cervical carotid bifurcation is feasible in relatively safe conditions. However, analysis of the case complicated by a major stroke and the evolution of protection devices in recent years suggest the use of such devices for brain protection. The most suitable condition for endovascular treatment is considered to be an intermediate stenosis, i.e. with a residual lumen for safe passage of the devices used, without need for dangerous friction on plaque surfaces. The most dangerous phase of the treatment is dilation of the plaque by the balloon; deployment of an oversized stent. without dilation is desirable whenever possible.