INTRACRANIAL ANGIOPLASTY & STENTING

Intracranial angioplasty and stenting is a minimally invasive procedure used to open narrowed arteries within the brain. These narrowed arteries can be caused by a buildup of plaque, a condition known as intracranial atherosclerosis (ICAD). When blood flow to the brain is restricted due to narrowed arteries, it can increase the risk of stroke.

The Procedure:

Access: A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into an artery in your groin or arm. Using X-ray guidance, the catheter is navigated through your arteries until it reaches the narrowed artery in your brain.
Angioplasty: A tiny balloon attached to the catheter is inflated at the blockage site. This balloon expands the artery, improving blood flow.
Stenting (Optional): In some cases, a small metal mesh tube called a stent is placed in the artery after angioplasty. The stent helps hold the artery open and prevent it from narrowing again.

Benefits:

Minimally invasive compared to traditional brain surgery.
Improves blood flow to the brain, reducing the risk of stroke.
May be an option for patients who are not candidates for surgery.

Risks:

Stroke
Bleeding
Vessel injury
Allergic reaction to contrast dye used during the procedure

Who Needs This Procedure?

Intracranial angioplasty and stenting is typically considered for patients with:

Symptomatic ICAD: This refers to patients who have experienced a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke caused by narrowed arteries in the brain.
Severe stenosis: When the narrowing of the artery is greater than 70%.
Failed medical management: If medications haven’t been effective in preventing recurrent strokes.

IR Treatment (Interventional Radiology)

Intracranial angioplasty and stenting is performed by an interventional radiologist (IR doctor). IR specialists use imaging techniques like X-rays, fluoroscopy, and CT scans to guide minimally invasive procedures throughout the body, including the brain.

IR doctors have extensive training in performing these procedures and are skilled at navigating catheters through complex vascular systems. In addition to angioplasty and stenting, IR doctors can perform other minimally invasive procedures to treat brain conditions, such as: