As I read the literature, treatment for carotid artery disease carries great risks. When a patient has had a TIA (transient ischemic attack) or RIND ( reversible ischemic neurologic deficit), and has significant carotid artery disease, then carotid endarterectomy can help prevent subsequent strokes, but only at the risk of intraoperative stroke. Overall, surgery does help, but the surgery does carry significant risk.

Researchers have announced results of stenting the carotid artery – but the link gives few details. Study Said to Back Guidant Artery Device

Researchers presented new evidence today that a minimally invasive technique might be the best way to treat high-risk patients with clogged arteries in the neck who are at risk of a stroke. The study, released at a meeting of cardiologists in Chicago, showed patients who were poor candidates for surgery fared well when tiny, wire-mesh tubes called stents were implanted to prop open clogged carotid arteries.

A trial of 513 patients treated with a stent found the procedure to be safe and effective at treating those who are at high risk in about 92 percent of cases.

Certainly promising results, which we need to scrutinize carefully. Which patients entered the study; what were the complications; was the there a control group? One should hesitate at developing too much enthusiasm from a newspaper report. We need to read the articles.