Interventional Radiology: Stroke

Carotid artery disease (CAD) is a condition where arteries that carry blood to the head and brain become narrow or clogged with plaque, increasing the risk of stroke. Inova vascular and interventional radiologists evaluate and treat the condition using the following techniques: Carotid Angiography An exam to diagnose blockages, narrowing or other defects of the carotid artery, the large blood vessel in the neck that supplies blood to the brain. If a narrowing or blockage is found, we usually open it with angioplasty or thrombolysis. Carotid Artery Stenting An interventional radiologist uses a combination of balloon angioplasty and a stent implant to unblock and re-open the carotid artery, a major supplier of blood to the brain. While the lesion is stented during the procedure, an embolic protection system is used to collect plaque that could become dislodged and potentially cause a stroke. Carotid artery stenting may provide a preventive measure against stroke for patients with carotid artery disease who are ineligible for the current method of care. Stroke Thrombolysis Although we usually use thrombolytic therapy for PVD or deep-vein thrombosis, we occasionally use this in treating patients having an acute ischemic stroke, restoring blood flow to the brain before incurring permanent damage. Inova Stroke Services Read more about our stroke services and get important information about stroke warning signs and support.