Blockchain Registration Transaction Record

Carotid Artery Procedures Don't Boost Brain Function, Study Finds

CREST-2 study reveals carotid artery procedures don't improve cognitive function compared to medication alone. Research presented at American Stroke Association conference challenges treatment assumptions.

This research fundamentally changes how patients and doctors approach carotid artery treatment decisions. For millions of people with asymptomatic carotid stenosis who face choices between invasive procedures and medical management, this study provides crucial evidence that neither stenting nor carotid endarterectomy surgery offers cognitive benefits beyond what can be achieved with medication and lifestyle changes alone. This matters because patients often undergo these procedures with expectations of improved memory and thinking skills, and healthcare providers have sometimes promoted them for potential cognitive benefits. The findings help patients make more informed decisions based on realistic outcomes, potentially reducing unnecessary procedures while still addressing stroke risk. Additionally, the research redirects scientific focus toward understanding the complex mechanisms behind cognitive decline in vascular disease, which could lead to more effective interventions for preserving brain health as people age.