Endovascular treatment of carotid stenosis.

Carotid artery angioplasty and stenting (CAS) has experienced an astonishing rate of development over the last 2 decades, becoming a viable alternative to carotid endarterectomy (CEA) in the management of carotid stenosis. Many trials have attempted to compare both treatment modalities and establish indications for each, depending on clinical and anatomic features. In this article, the authors review the historical evolution of carotid stenting; its main technical aspects, indications, and contraindications; as well as the most important clinical trials comparing CAS and CEA.