Extracranial Carotid and Vertebral Artery Disease

Management of carotid and vertebral artery disease has undergone tremendous strides since the introduction of thin section CT angiography and neurointerventions. These minimally invasive techniques continue to evolve allowing great advantages for patients. In this book we will focus on both endovascular (minimally invasive) and open arterial reconstructions as both types of procedures are still very much part of routine practice in managing extracranial carotid and vertebral artery disease. This text is designed to be a comprehensive and state-of-the art approach in managing straight forward to complex arterial reconstructions. Sections will focus on carotid/vertebral anatomy, physiology, diagnostic modalities. Subsequent chapters will focus on specific disease processes and their management with best medical therapy neurointerventions (carotid artery stenting) and open reconstructions like carotid endarterectomy and arterial reconstructions for vertebral artery disease. In addition, management of extracranial carotid artery aneurysms, carotid body tumors and carotid trauma will be covered in detail. Modern techniques in rehabilitation practice for stroke patients will also be addressed. The authors will be recognized experts in their field, whether an acknowledged academic leader or a well respected community based surgeon. Each chapter dealing with clinical pathology will address patient selection, preoperative considerations, technical steps for operation and emphasis on avoiding complications. Management of common complications related to each procedure will be outlined in a step-wise fashion. Pertinent case illustrations will be described in short at the end of the chapter. Figures and illustrations will help the reader in grasping the technique of a particular procedure.