Vertebral artery stenting

The safety and efficacy of endoluminal stenting in treating atherosclerotic vertebral artery disease was evaluated in 38 vessels in 32 patients. Indications for revascularization included diplopia (n = 4), blurred vision (n = 4), dizziness (n = 23), transient ischemic attacks (n = 4), drop attack (n = 1), gait disturbance (n = 1), headache (n = 2), and asymptomatic critical stenosis (n = 1). Success (< 20% residual diameter stenosis, without stroke or death) was achieved in all 32 patients (100%). One patient experienced a transient ischemic attack (TIA) I hr after the procedure. At follow-up (mean, 10.6 months), all patients (100%) were alive and 31/32 (97%) were asymptomatic. One patient (3%) had in-stent restenosis at 3.5 months and underwent successful balloon angioplasty. Endoluminal stenting of vertebral artery lesions is safe, effective, and durable as evidenced by the low recurrence rate. Primary stent placement is an attractive option for atherosclerotic vertebral artery stenotic lesions. (C) 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.