A single-center experience of carotid artery stenting by a single operator in a tertiary care setting in Pakistan

Objective: To determine the frequency of complications of carotid artery stenting and its success as a minimally invasive procedure. Methodology: This descriptive retrospective case series was conducted at the Department of Cardiology, Shifa International Hospital from January 2013 to December 2015. It included patients who had undergone carotid artery angioplasty and stenting. Data collected was to outline the demographic profile, clinical features, and post-procedure outcome with associated complications. Results: There were a total of 26 patients and 28 carotid artery stenting procedures performed. Mean age of the patients was 67.2±12.9 years (range 35-85). Patients who were symptomatic (nine patients) complained of vertigo, TIA, right and left middle cerebral artery infarct. The only complication of non-disabling stroke during peri-procedure was reported along with bradycardia, ventricular tachycardia, and ICU psychosis. Conclusion: This is the largest case series of its kind conducted in Pakistan regarding carotid artery stenting. With a success rate of 96.42% and zero mortality, it can safely be said that this procedure is successful and feasible with minimal complications.