Understanding Intracranial Angioplasty & Stenting

• When the artery is too narrow or blocked to be treated effectively by angioplasty alone
• When angioplasty alone doesn’t provide long-lasting results
• When there’s a risk of re-narrowing of the artery after angioplasty

Stenting has been a breakthrough in managing conditions like carotid artery stenosis, peripheral artery disease angioplasty, and other vascular issues. It allows for more durable results and a better quality of life for patients who have undergone endovascular surgery.

Intracranial angioplasty and stenting can benefit patients who suffer from reduced blood flow in the brain due to blocked or narrowed arteries. Conditions that might warrant these procedures include:

1. Carotid Artery Stenosis
   The carotid arteries supply blood to the brain, and narrowing due to plaque buildup can lead to stroke. Intracranial angioplasty and stenting can help relieve the blockage, restoring blood flow and preventing potential strokes.
2. Intracranial Atherosclerotic Disease
   This is a condition where atherosclerosis causes blockages in the arteries that supply blood to the brain. Angioplasty and stenting can prevent a stroke by reopening these arteries.

Both intracranial angioplasty and stenting are typically performed in a hospital setting, usually under local anesthesia. Here’s a breakdown of what the procedure involves:

1. Preparation: Before the procedure, the vascular specialist will review the patient’s medical history, imaging results, and other diagnostic tests to assess the condition of the arteries.
2. Catheter Insertion: A small incision is made, typically in the groin area, and a catheter is inserted into the femoral artery. Using real-time imaging (like X-ray or fluoroscopy in a Cath Lab), the catheter is carefully guided to the site of the blockage.
3. Angioplasty: Once in place, a balloon catheter is inflated to widen the blocked artery.
4. Stent Placement: After angioplasty, a stent is deployed to keep the artery open. The stent is usually positioned at the site of the narrowing to provide long-term support.
5. Post-Procedure Monitoring: The patient will be monitored for a few hours after the procedure, ensuring that the blood flow is restored without complications.

As with any medical procedure, intracranial angioplasty and stenting come with some risks and potential complications. These include:

• Infection at the catheter insertion site
• Blood clots in the arteries (which may require anticoagulant medications)
• Stroke or TIA during or after the procedure due to dislodging of plaque
• Re-narrowing of the artery over time (restenosis), although this can be minimized with proper stent placement
• Allergic reactions to contrast dye used during the procedure

However, the risks are minimal when the procedure is performed by an experienced endovascular surgeon like Dr. Sumit Kapadia, who specializes in such complex treatments.

There are numerous advantages to opting for intracranial angioplasty and stenting, particularly when compared to traditional open surgeries:

• Minimally Invasive: These procedures require only a small incision, which reduces the trauma to the body.
• Faster Recovery: Most patients experience a quicker recovery, often leaving the hospital the same day or after a short stay.
• Reduced Pain and Discomfort: Because these are less invasive than surgery, patients generally experience less pain and swelling post-procedure.
• Effective for Severe Conditions: For patients with advanced arterial blockages, angioplasty, and stenting can provide relief when other methods fail.

As a highly skilled vascular specialist and endovascular surgeon, Dr. Sumit Kapadia is committed to offering cutting-edge treatments for patients suffering from vascular conditions, including carotid artery stenosis, peripheral artery disease, and other severe arterial diseases. Dr. Kapadia’s extensive experience with endovascular surgery procedures ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care and the best possible outcomes.

At his practice, patients benefit from advanced diagnostics, state-of-the-art technology, and a personalized approach to treatment. Whether you’re dealing with narrowing arteries or other complex vascular issues, Dr. Kapadia’s expertise in endovascular treatment can provide lasting relief and significantly improve your quality of life.

Intracranial angioplasty and stenting are revolutionary procedures that offer significant benefits for patients dealing with blocked arteries in the brain. These minimally invasive treatments not only restore blood flow but also reduce the risks of stroke and other complications. With the right care and attention, most patients experience quicker recovery times and lasting improvements.

If you or a loved one is suffering from conditions like carotid artery stenosis, peripheral artery disease angioplasty, or intracranial atherosclerotic disease, don’t hesitate to consult an experienced vascular specialist like Dr. Sumit Kapadia. His expertise in endovascular surgery and his commitment to patient well-being ensure that you receive the highest level of care.