Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting for carotid artery stenosis.

BACKGROUND Carotid percutaneous transluminal angioplasty may be a useful non-surgical procedure for carotid stenosis, particularly for lesions not suitable for surgery. OBJECTIVES The objective of this review was to assess the effect of carotid percutaneous transluminal angioplasty compared with carotid endarterectomy (in patients suitable for surgery) or medical therapy (in patients not suitable for surgery). SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Stroke Groups trials register (to August 1997). We contacted researchers in the field and balloon catheter manufacturers. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised trials of carotid percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (with or without stenting) compared with carotid endarterectomy, or percutaneous transluminal angioplasty plus best medical therapy compared with best medical therapy alone, in people with carotid artery stenosis (symptomatic or asymptomatic). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two reviewers independently applied the inclusion criteria. MAIN RESULTS No completed trials were found. Two trials are underway. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS There is no evidence as yet to assess the relative effects of carotid percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in people with carotid stenosis.