Stenting is a minimally invasive procedure aimed at restoring arterial patency in vessels such as the brachiocephalic and intracranial arteries in cases of narrowing (stenosis) or damage (dissection). Stent placement helps prevent stroke and improves cerebral blood supply.
Indications for stenting
- Arterial stenosis. Narrowing of brachiocephalic (carotid, subclavian, vertebral) or intracranial arteries; chronic cerebral ischemia; risk of stroke or transient ischemic attacks (TIA).
- Arterial dissection. Tear of the inner vessel wall creating a false lumen; complications such as thrombosis or ischemia.
- Atherosclerotic plaques. Presence of unstable plaques with a high risk of thrombosis.
- Resistance to medical therapy. Lack of adequate response to antiplatelet and anticoagulant treatment.
- Neurological symptoms. Recurrent headaches, weakness, impaired coordination, or visual disturbances.
Pre-procedural preparation
- Diagnostics. Doppler ultrasound of the neck and head vessels to assess blood flow and degree of stenosis; CT angiography, MR angiography, and cerebral angiography.
- Laboratory tests: coagulation profile and biochemical blood tests.
- Medication preparation. Initiation of antiplatelet therapy to prevent thrombosis.
Procedure steps
- Anesthesia.
- Vascular access. A catheter is introduced via puncture of the femoral or radial artery.
- Angiography. Contrast injection to visualize the affected vessel.
- Stent deployment. A stent (self-expanding or balloon-expandable) is placed in the target segment; pre-dilation with a balloon may be performed if required.
- Control phase. Repeat angiography to confirm vessel patency and correct stent positioning.
- Completion. Catheter removal and application of a compression dressing.
Types of stents
- Self-expanding stents. Made of materials that expand to the intended shape on their own; commonly used in mobile vascular segments, including intracranial arteries.
- Balloon-expandable stents. Deployed using a balloon; preferred for arteries with rigid atherosclerotic plaques.
Advantages of stenting
- Minimally invasive. No large incisions and a short recovery period.
- High efficacy. Immediate restoration of blood flow in the affected artery.
- Low complication risk. Modern stents reduce the risk of thrombosis.
- Applicability in hard-to-reach areas. Including intracranial vessels.
Post-procedural period
- Early phase. In-hospital monitoring for 1–2 days with neurological and hemodynamic assessment.
- Pharmacotherapy. Antithrombotic treatment (dual antiplatelet therapy).
- Restrictions. Avoidance of strenuous physical activity for 1–2 weeks; blood pressure control.
- Follow-up imaging. Doppler ultrasound or CT angiography at 1 and 6 months.
Stenting of brachiocephalic and intracranial arteries in Belarus is a modern and effective treatment for arterial stenosis and dissection, helping to prevent stroke and improve cerebral circulation. Due to its minimally invasive nature and short recovery time, the procedure is a preferred option for managing cerebrovascular disease.
In Belarus, stenting of brachiocephalic and intracranial arteries is performed at leading neurosurgical and vascular centers. Highly qualified specialists use advanced diagnostic methods and state-of-the-art stenting technologies. An individualized approach, modern equipment, and affordable costs make Belarus an attractive destination for international patients.
