Carotid artery angioplasty and stenting (CAS) is a minimally invasive procedure that restores blood flow to the brain by opening a narrowed carotid artery and supporting it with a stent. CAS reduces the risk of stroke, particularly in patients who are not ideal candidates for open surgery.
At Midwest Spine & Brain Institute, our cerebrovascular specialists provide expert evaluation, advanced imaging, and coordinated care for patients across Minnesota and western Wisconsin, including the Twin Cities metro area.
What Is Carotid Artery Angioplasty and Stenting?
CAS is a catheter-based procedure designed to widen blocked carotid arteries and maintain patency with a mesh stent.
How it works:
- A small balloon expands the narrowed artery
- A stent supports the artery wall to keep it open
- Blood flow to the brain improves immediately in most patients
Who may benefit:
- Patients with moderate to severe carotid stenosis
- Individuals with prior neck surgery or radiation
- Patients with conditions that increase the risk of open surgery
Related Conditions & Procedures:
Symptoms That May Lead to CAS
Patients with carotid artery narrowing may experience symptoms similar to TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack) or stroke:
- Facial drooping on one side
- Arm or leg weakness
- Slurred or difficult speech
- Blurred or double vision
- Sudden balance problems or dizziness
Primary causes include:
- Atherosclerotic plaque buildup
- Blood clots narrowing the artery
- Progressive carotid artery disease
How Carotid Stenosis Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis is critical to determine the presence, severity, and best treatment option.
Common diagnostic tests:
- Carotid Ultrasound (Doppler): measures blood-flow velocity
- CT Angiography (CTA): maps plaque and vessel anatomy
- MR Angiography (MRA): evaluates arteries without radiation
- Cerebral Angiography: used when intervention is planned
These studies guide whether CAS or carotid endarterectomy is safest.
How the CAS Procedure Works
CAS is performed via a small incision in the groin or wrist.
Step-by-step:
- Catheter is guided to the narrowed carotid artery using live X-ray and contrast dye
- Balloon gently widens the blockage
- Stent is deployed to maintain artery patency
- Blood flow to the brain improves
Technology and safety:
- Embolic protection devices reduce stroke risk during the procedure
- Intraoperative imaging ensures precise stent placement
- Real-time monitoring preserves neurological function
Procedure time: 1–2 hours
Typical recovery: Most patients go home within 24–48 hours
Expected Outcomes
When performed by experienced neurosurgeons with proper follow-up:
- Cerebral blood flow improves
- Future stroke risk decreases
- Patients can return to normal daily activities
- CAS complements long-term medical therapy (statins, antiplatelets, blood pressure control)
Outcomes vary by anatomy, plaque severity, and overall health. Your care team reviews all risks and benefits before treatment.
Why Choose Midwest Spine & Brain Institute?
Patients choose MSBI for:
- Board-certified cerebrovascular neurosurgeons experienced in CAS and stroke prevention
- Advanced diagnostics: CTA, MRA, and ultrasound
- Minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery and reduced risk
- Multidisciplinary, coordinated care from evaluation through rehabilitation
- Convenient access in Apple Valley, Blaine, Burnsville, and surrounding Twin Cities communities
Patient Journey
- Consultation & Evaluation: Meet a cerebrovascular specialist
- Diagnostic Imaging: Ultrasound, CTA, MRA, or angiography
- Personalized Treatment Plan: CAS or alternative stroke-prevention strategy
- Procedure & Post-Op Care: Minimally invasive surgery with neurological monitoring
- Recovery & Follow-Up: Rehabilitation support, antiplatelet therapy, and long-term stroke prevention
Frequently Asked Questions
Is carotid stenting safer than surgery?
Both CAS and carotid endarterectomy are effective. CAS is less invasive and may be safer for patients with higher surgical risk or prior neck surgery.
How long is recovery after CAS?
Most patients resume light activity within a few days; full recovery typically occurs over several weeks with rehabilitation guidance.
Will I still need medication after stenting?
Yes. Antiplatelet therapy and cholesterol management are essential to protect the stent and prevent future narrowing.
Who is a good candidate for CAS?
Patients with moderate to severe carotid stenosis, prior neck surgery, radiation, or higher surgical risk are potential candidates.
Does CAS prevent all strokes?
No procedure eliminates stroke risk entirely, but CAS significantly reduces risk when combined with long-term medical therapy and follow-up care.
Find Expert Stroke-Prevention Care Near You
Midwest Spine & Brain Institute provides comprehensive cerebrovascular care across Minnesota and western Wisconsin, including the Twin Cities metro area. Our team specializes in minimally invasive CAS procedures, advanced imaging, and coordinated post-procedure care.
Take the Next Step
If you or a loved one has carotid artery disease, early evaluation is critical. Our experts provide personalized treatment plans, minimally invasive procedures, and coordinated follow-up to help reduce stroke risk and protect neurological health.