Carotid artery stenting and cognitive impairment

Abstract

Recently, concerns about cognitive impairment and its association with carotid artery stenosis have been raised up progressively. Carotid artery stenting (CAS) is a well-established method which has been widely applied for ischemic stroke. However, its impact on cognitive function remains controversial. CAS can improve cognitive function by reducing the incidence of ischemic stroke and improving hemodynamic status, while postoperative microembolic events can lead to increased cognitive impairment. In addition, the effect of CAS on cognitive function is also affected by many other factors, including white matter hyperintensity (WMH), cerebral microbleeds (CMBs), depression, advanced age, etc. Carotid Revascularization and Medical Management for Asymptomatic Carotid Stenosis-Hemodynamics (CREST-H) is expected to provide a clearer understanding of the therapeutic effects of CAS in cognitive function in conclusion. DOI:10.3969/j.issn.1672-6731.2019.10.003

Keywords

• carotid stenosis
• angioplasty
• stents
• cognition disorders
• review