Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

Other Treatment

Carotid artery stenting is a procedure similar to one commonly used to open narrowed arteries in the heart. Angioplasty combined with a stent is now being done as an alternative to surgery for preventing transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke. In this procedure, a doctor threads a thin tube called a catheter through an artery in the groin and up to the carotid arteries in your neck. The doctor then uses a tiny balloon to enlarge the narrowed portion of the artery and places a wire mesh stent to keep the artery open. Carotid artery stenting is not as common as carotid endarterectomy.

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Author:	Robin Parks, MS	Last Updated: February 26, 2008
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Karin M. Lindholm, DO - Neurology
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