Cerebral Angioplasty

Cerebral angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure to start a carotid artery that’s narrowed or blocked.

Carotid arteries are the blood vessels that bring blood into the brain and throat. They’re located on both sides of the throat. The carotid could be partly or completely blocked with a fatty substance called plaque. A plaque is a substance made from cholesterol, cholesterol, calcium, protein, and, cellular waste.

A blockage can lessen the source of blood from the brain. Some areas of the artery plaque may break off and make other congestion. A partial blockage is known as Carotid artery stenosis (narrowing). If the mind doesn’t get enough blood source, a stroke may happen.

Symptoms of a Blocked Carotid Artery

Patients Encounter Stroke or Mini-stroke/ Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) with symptoms like:

Sudden severe headache
Sudden weakness of the limbs or face generally on either side
Dizziness or loss of balance
Trouble with eyesight in both eyes
Trouble talking or understanding

Types of Procedure

Endarterectomy

An operation to remove plaque from the inside of the artery of the neck.

Carotid Angioplasty with Stent Placement (CAS)

An operation involving inserting and inflating a small balloon to open the artery and putting a little metallic stent (wire mesh) to keep an open artery to prevent additional blockage.

Indications for Endarterectomy

Endarterectomy is a more traditional process but effective and safe to deal with obstructed or narrowed arteries for problems below:

When the congestion is 50 — 79 percent in the carotid artery and experiencing symptoms like stroke, mini-stroke, or TIA
A serious (80 percent) blockage without any indicators

Indications for CAS Procedure

CAS is a fantastic alternative and might be preferred because of these reasons:

When the individual is too sick to have carotid Endarterectomy
When the operation is harder to do because of the positioning of this narrowing artery
When the individual has had throat or carotid surgery before
When the individual has had radiation at the throat

Diagnosis and Tests

Physical Evaluation
Carotid ultrasound
MRA
CTA
Carotid angiography
Blood tests

Factors That Can Affect Cerebral Angioplasty Cost

Medication costs
Duration of treatment
Geographical location
Hospitalization expenses
Government policies and subsidies
Hospital reputation and infrastructure
The expertise and experience of medical professionals
The type and frequency of diagnostic procedures
The choice of treatment modality

Procedure

Before Procedure

Physical Evaluation of affected regions
Diagnostic tests will be performed
Your physician reviews your outcomes and clinical history
Any current medications or allergies should be noted
You might be asked to discontinue some medicines like diabetic drugs or blood thinners before operation
Take approved medications with small sips of water
You’ll be asked to fast 8 – 12 hours before the operation
You’ll also need to stop smoking
If you’re having a carotid operation with a stent, your groin area will be shaved and ready for surgery

During Procedure

You will receive general or local anesthesia at the throat or groin based on the operation
The operation will last about 1-2 hours depending on the type of congestion

Endarterectomy:

The surgeon makes an incision in the front of your neck
The plaque is removed from the artery
The artery is then fixed by a natural graft or a woven patch

CAS:

Electrodes monitor heart rate
A small catheter is inserted in the groin and guided to the throat
Contrast material is injected into the carotid artery
A filter is put outside the narrowing
A balloon is inflated to push plaque into the artery wall
A stent is inserted to prevent further congestion
The filter, catheter, and balloon are removed

After Procedure

You might need to lie down after the operation to prevent some bleeding
You may stay overnight in the hospital depending on your health
You may experience soreness or bruising
An ultrasound of the carotid artery can be taken annually
Medicines will be given for pain
Avoid strenuous activities for 24 hours
Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise may be required
Follow-up will be scheduled

Risks and Complications

Stroke
Nerve damage affecting voice box, tongue, or back
Heart attack
Allergic reaction to the dye
Blood clots
Brain damage
In-stent restenosis
Kidney failure
More blockage in the carotid artery over time

The Most Important Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How Will I Benefit from This Surgery?
A: The operation will open the plaque at the carotid artery which blocks the blood flow to your brain. This will help save you from getting a stroke.

Q: What Happens If the Plaque Is Left Untreated?
A: Untreated plaque at the throat can lead to a stroke or mini-stroke (TIA).

Q: What Type of Surgery Will Be Suitable for Me?
A: This will rely on the complications within your own body and your health care provider will determine which is most acceptable for you.

Q: What Is a Plaque?
A: It’s a fatty material made from cholesterol, calcium, mobile waste, and protein that blocks the artery.

Q: Is Having a Stent in My Artery Safe?
A: Yes, a stent is made from metal wires. This will prevent the artery from narrowing.

Q: What If Scar Tissue Forms Inside the Stent?
A: If it occurs, a radiation treatment named Brachytherapy can be used to clean the scarred region.

Q: How Will I Know If Plaque Recurs in My Artery?
A: You’ll need a yearly carotid ultrasound to assess for recurrence.

Q: Is the Surgery Painful?
A: You’ll be given anesthesia so you won’t feel pain. You may have discomfort post-surgery.

Q: How Will I Prevent Carotid Artery Disease?
A: Eat a wholesome diet, exercise, stop smoking, and maintain a healthy weight.

Q: Is a Long-Haul Flight Recommended After Surgery?
A: Wait a minimum of two weeks if you had significant complications. Consult your doctor.

Q: Do I Need to Carry a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate When I Travel to India?
A: Yes, if traveling from affected countries. Adults and children need to carry the certificate.

Q: Do I Need Oral Polio Vaccination Certificate?
A: Yes, travelers from listed countries must carry the certificate taken not earlier than 6 months before entry.

Q: Are the Hospitals in Your Panel Internationally Accredited?
A: Yes, many are JCI accredited and meet international standards.