ABSTRACT
Objective To review the prevention and treatment strategies for complications after carotid artery stenting in a single medical center. Methods From December 2004 to December 2009,clinical data of 118 cases of carotid artery stenting with the use of cerebral protective device were analyzed retrospectively. Results The surgical success rate was 100% with no perioperative 30- day mortality or severe complications such as disabling stroke. The overall perioperative complication rate was 32. 20% (38/118), including carotid artery spasm in 10.17% (10/118), bradycardia in 11.02% (13/118), hypotension in 2.54% (3/118), transient ischemic attack in 5.93% (7/118) and false aneurysm of femoral artery in 2. 54% (3/118) cases. The average follow-up time was (28 ± 15) months. The mortality was 2. 38% (2/84) and the overall complication rate was 10. 71% (9/84) , including ischemic stroke in 3. 57% (3/84) , in-stent restenosis in 1. 19% ( 1/84) , stent deformation in 4. 66% (4/84) and stent fracture in 1. 19% (1/84) cases. Conclusion Death or ischemic stroke and other severe complications after carotid artery stenting under cerebral protective device were low. A careful selection of patients and strict indication for surgery is the key to reduce the complication rate.