Evaluation of intracranial circulation by transcranial ultrasound: Useful method for selection of patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis to carotid endarterectomy. Single center experience

Aim: Of all ischemic strokes 15-20% result from carotid occlusive disease.Of these up to 80% occur without previous transient ischemic attack The prevalence of asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis (CAS) in general population is 2-8%.Annual risk of ipsilateral stroke is currently estimated to be 1-2% meaning that routin CAE is not justified.However there are patients with substantial higher risk whom CAE is still indicated in.Hence risk stratification is needed.One of the options is to test intracranial haemodynamic by Transcranial Color-coded Sonography (TCCS) at rest and cerebrovascular reserve (CVR).There is evidence that impaired CVR is an independent risk factor for strokes (low-flow events)..Other contribution of transcranial US to the risk stratification of patients with asymptomatic CAS is possibility to test risk of cerebral microembolisation..
Source: Atherosclerosis - Category: Cardiology Authors: Source Type: research