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The proximal extracranial vertebral artery is a common site of stenosis identified by cerebral angiography (second only to carotid bifurcation). In an autopsy study of 259 ischemic-stroke fatalities, proximal extracranial vertebral artery stenosis (ECVAS) >30% was significantly associated with infarctions (Stroke 2009; 40:713), highlighting the importance of a thorough work-up for patients with ECVAS, followed by preventive treatment if substantial stenosis is found. To determine the risks and durability of endovascular treatment of ECVAS, researchers have now reviewed data from 27 studies involving 993 patients (92% were symptomatic and 99% received stents).
Of 895 patients for whom status of the contralateral vertebral artery was reported,…