Carotid Stenting is a life-saving procedure in many places, including Evergreen Park, Illinois. It’s a surgical procedure that widens narrowed or obstructed blood vessels in the neck (carotid artery) by inserting a tiny tube called a catheter through an incision in the skin. An Evergreen Park carotid stenting uses it to treat carotid artery stenosis. The arteries become narrowed due to the build-up of fatty deposits (atherosclerosis), decreasing blood flow. But how do you prepare for it?
Ultrasound
An ultrasound is a non-invasive test that uses sound waves to create images of your carotid arteries. This test will determine if you have carotid artery stenosis and how severe it is. Your doctor may also use an ultrasound to check for other conditions that could be causing your symptoms, such as:
- Atherosclerosis – a build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries
- Aneurysm – a bulge or ballooning in the wall of an artery
- Thrombus – a blood clot
Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
MRA is a non-invasive test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create images of your carotid arteries. This test is usually used if you can’t have an ultrasound or if your doctor needs more information about the severity of your stenosis. MRA usually takes about 30 minutes.
An MRI is a medical test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of organs and tissues within the body. An MRI of the carotid arteries can provide your doctor with highly detailed images of the blood vessels and can help them determine if you are a candidate for carotid stenting.
Computerized Tomography Angiography (CTA)
CTA is a non-invasive test that uses X-rays and a computer to create images of the arteries in your neck. This test is usually used if you can’t have an ultrasound, MRA, or MRI or if your doctor needs more information about the severity of your stenosis. CTA usually takes about 15 minutes.
Take Approved Medications
If you are taking medications for other conditions, be sure to talk to your doctor about whether or not you can continue taking them during the carotid stenting procedure. Some common medications that may need to be stopped include:
- Blood thinners – such as warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, and clopidogrel (Plavix).
- Anti-inflammatory medications – such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve).
- Beta-blockers – such as atenolol (Tenormin), metoprolol (Lopressor), and propranolol (Inderal).
Stop Smoking
If you are a smoker, it is crucial to stop smoking at least two weeks before your carotid stenting procedure. Smoking can increase your risk of complications during and after the process.
Maintain Healthy Weight and Diet
It is vital to maintain a healthy weight and diet before and after your carotid stenting procedure. Eating a healthy diet and staying active can help reduce your risk of developing heart disease and other health complications. Ensure that you are active in working out, which helps your cardiovascular system and brain function well. Continue with a healthy lifestyle even after the treatment.
The carotid stenting procedure is a surgical intervention used to widen narrowed or obstructed blood vessels in the neck. The most common use for this surgery is to treat carotid artery stenosis, a condition in which fatty deposits build up and restrict blood flow. If you’re preparing for carotid stenting, it’s essential to be in good general health and follow your doctor’s instructions. This will help ensure a successful procedure and recovery.