OBJECTIVETo introduce the procedure of carotid stenting, and to summary experiences of 55 cases. To study the theory and clinical significance of carotid stenting for carotid artery stenosis.

METHODSFifty-five patients with severe carotid atheromatous stenoses were treated by stent implantation. Fifty-eight stents were implanted. Forty-one of these stents were Wallstent, 14 were Smart stents and 3 were OptiMed stents. Cerebral protection device was furnished for 18 patients.

RESULTSDuring operation, there were 2 cases of small stroke and 2 cases of major stroke. One patient suffered from left eye area deficit, who had a little signs after 3 months. Another patient had consciousness loss and right-side paralysis and had a recovery in consciousness after salvage. The incidence of nervous system complications was 6.9%. Serious stroke rate was 3.5%. The incidence of circulatory system complications was 10.3%. Those patients who received cerebral protection device did not have nervous complication.

CONCLUSIONCarotid stenting is effective for the treatment of carotid artery stenosis. The experienced surgeon can make this procedure safe. The procedure's safety is enhanced by using cerebral protection device.