Carotid artery disease is the narrowing of the carotid arteries in the neck that provide blood flow to the brain. When these arteries become narrowed this can lead to a stroke. At West Michigan Cardiology we offer a variety carotid artery disease screening and treatment options. Screening for carotid stenosis starts with a thorough physical exam. If indicated a carotid ultrasound can be performed in our office. This is an external ultrasound to assess the blood flow within the carotid arteries. If narrowing is suspected the next step is a CT scan of the neck or a carotid angiogram.

A carotid angiogram is a minimally invasive procedure done in the hospital. During this procedure an small catheter is placed in an artery within the wrist or groin. This catheter is advanced up to the neck arteries and contrast dye is injected. This allows the cardiologist to view the carotid arteries in real time under fluroscopy. If a severe narrowing is found the doctor will then open the blockage with a specialized balloon. A stent is then placed in the artery to keep it open. Typically patients stay 1 - 2 nights in the hospital after this procedure.

Carotid stenting is a less invasive way to treat carotid artery disease as opposed to open carotid surgery called carotid endarterectomy.