Carotid Artery Occlusion

Abstract

Carotid artery thrombosis is a common disease which in the past was diagnosed as a "stroke" condition or "cerebral vascular accident". Both complete and incomplete thromboses may exist. During the past 5 years 70 cases were encountered. Angiographic studies which are essential in diagnosis must include visualization of the neck in order to delineate the partial occlusions involving the carotid bulb area. A worthwhile clinical test for carotid occlusions involves digital compression of the contralateral ( or good) carotid artery. Syncope is usually readily induced when a complete thrombosis is present. Only 10-15 seconds of compression is required. Longer compression may be necessary when the occlusion is incomplete. This syncopal reaction has been previously identified as the "cerebral type" of carotid sinus reflex. Treatment for the condition requires measures for increasing cerebral blood flow. The use of a carotid artery graft has important possibilities in treating patients with partial occlusions.