Primary Stroke Prevention: Medical Therapy Versus Revascularization

Abstract

Asymptomatic carotid-artery atherosclerotic vascular disease identifies patients at heightened risk of major adverse cardiovascular events including ischemic stroke. Observational and registry analyses demonstrate that this risk extends beyond that attributable to carotid atherosclerosis itself and includes events manifesting in other vascular territories, such as myocardial infarction. However, randomized trials aimed specifically at treating carotid stenosis have shown benefit in terms of reducing ischemic stroke in appropriately selected patients. Therefore, the approach to primary prevention in patients with stable carotid disease must include a comprehensive strategy to reduce cerebrovascular-specific and overall cardiovascular risk through lifestyle changes and intensive medical therapies.

Keywords: Asymptomatic carotid disease; Atherosclerotic vascular disease; Carotid artery disease; Carotid stenosis; Stroke prevention.