Closed-cell stents for cervical internal carotid artery pseudo-occlusion and its effects on vessel remodeling

Objective To evaluate the closed-cell stents in the treatment of carotid pseudo-occlusion. Methods From Jan 2014 to Dec 2017, clinical data of 34 patients undergoing carotid artery recanalization with closed-cell stents for pseudo-occlusion were analyzed retrospectively. Results The technical success rate was 97.1% (33/34) and the intracranial blood supply improved in 91.2% patients (31/34). The 30-day perioperative ipsilateral symptomatic ischemic stroke rate was 2.9% (1/34). All the patients were discharged with no peri-operative hyperperfusion syndrome, myocardial infarction. The average follow-up time was 15.2±7.6 months. The incidence of carotid artery restenosis was 17.6%. There was no stroke-related mortality. Ultrasound or CTA found luminal dilatation of the distal internal carotid artery. The diameter increased from (2.5±0.5) mm to (4.1±0.6) mm after intervention (P<0.001). Conclusion Closed-cell stents for carotid artery pseudo-occlusion is safe and effective, decreasing cerebral stroke and carotid occlusion.