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    Description

    The main arteries in the neck (the carotid arteries) can become narrowed by fatty deposits (extracranial carotid stenosis). Blood clots can form on these fatty deposits. Fragments can then detach and lodge in thinner arteries that supply blood to parts of the brain. This can cause a stroke or a transient ischaemic attack (sometimes called a 'mini stroke'). If the carotid stenosis is not causing any health problems it is asymptomatic.

    In this procedure, a metal mesh called a stent is used to widen the narrowed carotid artery. A fine wire is inserted into an artery in the leg (transfemoral) and passed up into the carotid artery. The stent is then moved into place along the wire.