Screening for Asymptomatic Carotid Artery Stenosis in the General Population

Abstract

Carotid artery stenosis is a known stroke risk factor and a cardiovascular disease marker. No population-based screening trials for carotid artery stenosis have been conducted. Optimal treatment for clinically significant asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis remains uncertain. Options include best medical therapy alone or in combination with revascularization (carotid endarterectomy or carotid artery stenting) to prevent stroke. Revascularization has been associated with small long-term benefits compared with best medical therapy alone in historic trials but can result in surgical harms.¹