Some radiological abnormalities of the cervical carotid artery and their clinical significance.

Two hundred and fifty-four patients who underwent carotid angiography for common neurological and neurosurgical disorders were reviewed. The incidence and angiographic features of loops, coils, kinks and atheroma are analysed. Loops are common (34%), coils and kinks are not uncommon (7 and 6.6% respectively). The aetiology of these conditions and their clinical importance are discussed. Loops and coils have a developmental basis and do not by themselves cause cerebrovascular ischaemic attacks or influence the patchy development or atheroma. Kinks are acquired and are frequently seen in association with loops but their cause has not been established.