Carotid artery stenting: state of the art.

Carotid artery stenting (CAS) is growing as an alternative to carotid artery endarterectomy. Nowadays, it is performed routinely in many centers worldwide. Still, it is discussed controversially although several clinical trials have shown equivalency or superiority of catheter treatment at least in high-risk patients. What is still missing is a randomized trial in non-high-risk patients. This is an overview about the completed and ongoing trials as well as the current stent and embolic protection technology.