Carotid Artery Stenting

Carotid artery stenting is a minimally invasive procedure to treat carotid artery disease and prevent stroke.

Why choose UPMC in Central Pa. for carotid artery stenting (CAS)?

When you choose UPMC in Central Pa. for CAS, you will receive expert care from some of the region's most experienced cardiologists. Our physicians will use the latest carotid artery stenting devices and techniques to open your blocked carotid artery and lower your risk of stroke.

What is CAS?

CAS opens blocked carotid arteries – which are located on either side of your neck – to restore blood flow to your brain and reduce your risk of stroke. The procedure is performed using a catheter, a tiny expandable balloon, and a coil called a stent to help keep the artery from narrowing or closing again.

What happens during CAS?

You will be positioned on the table, lying on your back. You will be given local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Then, a small incision will be made in your groin or wrist to insert the catheter. The catheter, which carries a tiny balloon and a tube called a stent, will be guided to the site of the blockage in your carotid artery. After it is in place, dye will be injected through the catheter so the narrowed area will show up on x-ray pictures.

After the catheter is in place, the balloon will be inflated inside your artery to push back the blockage. Your doctor will place the stent in the opened area to hold your artery open.

During CAS, there is a risk that clots (emboli) from the blockage could dislodge, travel to your brain, and cause a stroke. To reduce your stroke risk, your doctor will use an embolic protection device (EPD) to "catch" any clots or small debris that might break loose.

What can I expect after CAS?

After the catheter is removed, your medical team will apply pressure to the insertion site for several minutes to help stop the bleeding. If the catheter was inserted through your groin, you must remain lying down for 4-6 hours and refrain from moving the limb where the catheter was inserted. If the catheter was inserted in your wrist, you may be able to move around sooner. Your medical team will need to monitor your condition and check the insertion site frequently, so you will need to remain in the hospital overnight. It is very important that you follow your discharge instructions and take good care of your insertion site to prevent complications.

How long does it take to recover after CAS?

Talk to your doctor about when you can resume normal activities or return to work. It also is very important that you see your doctor for follow-up visits as recommended. You should call your doctor if you are experiencing any unusual symptoms, including:

• Pain, redness, bleeding, drainage, or increased swelling at the insertion site
• Trouble walking or speaking
• Numbness on one side of your body
• Severe pain, coldness, numbness, or discoloration in the limb where the catheter was inserted
• A fever of more than 100.0°F

If any of these symptoms are severe, you should dial 911 immediately.

Need more information?

Call UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute at: 717-731-0101.

Request Information

Locations

UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute
Located at UPMC Outpatient Center
1251 East Main Street
Suite 3
Annville, PA 17003
Adult Cardiology: 717-731-0101
Pediatric Cardiology: 717-761-0200

UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute
360 Alexander Spring Road
Carlisle, PA 17013
Adult Cardiology: 717-243-6557
Pediatric Cardiology: 717-761-0200
Fax: 717-243-0102

UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute
2020 Technology Parkway
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
Adult Cardiology: 717-731-0101
Pediatric Cardiology: 717-761-0200
Fax: 717-731-8359

UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute
Located at Medical Office Building 2
2005 Technology Parkway
Suite 300
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
Main Number: 717-988-5864
Fax: 717-231-8568

UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute
900 Century Drive
Suite 100
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Phone: 717-591-3660 or 800-248-0257
Fax: 717-591-3661

UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute
Located at Medical Professional Center of Newport
300 Bretz Court
Newport, PA 17074
Phone: 717-567-7246 or 800-248-0257
Fax: 717-567-2621

UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute
Located at Brady Building
205 South Front Street
4th floor
Harrisburg, PA 17104
Phone: 717-231-8555
Fax: 717-231-8568

UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute
2808 Old Post Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Adult Cardiology: 717-920-4400
Pediatric Cardiology: 717-761-0200
Fax: 717-920-4401

UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute
12 Saint Paul Drive
Suite 205
Chambersburg, PA 17201
Adult Cardiology: 717-217-6881
Pediatric Cardiology: 717-761-0200
Fax: 717-217-6889 

UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute
Located at UPMC Outpatient Center
2201 Brunswick Drive
2200
Hanover, PA 17331
Phone: 717-637-1738
Fax: 717-646-7430 

UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute
233 College Avenue
Suite 203
Lancaster, PA 17603
Phone: 717-988-5864