Use of Stents to Prevent Stroke Questioned
According to the Seattle Times, “the increasingly common practice of preventing strokes by using wire-mesh stents to prop open neck arteries is much riskier than the traditional method of surgically removing plaque and should be curtailed, according to two large European studies.” The American studies, however, seem to suggest that stents are safer than surgery.
Strokes affect thousands of Americans each year. They are caused by a buildup of plaque in the arteries. The two methods for removing this plaque to prevent stroke are stenting or surgery. The surgical method of removing this plaque is known as carotid endarterectomy. It is unknown at this time why there is a discrepancy between the European studies and the American studies. A comprehensive study is scheduled to be done by the National Institutes of Health.
In the meantime, patients should discuss both options with their practitioners and inquire as to the number of each procedure performed by both the practitioner and the facility, and the results. If you or a family member believe you may have suffered injuries as the result if improper medical care, please feel free to contact us at Regan Zambri & Long, PLLC, or by phone at (202) 463-3030.