What are the recommended treatments for patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis?
Patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis should be prescribed daily aspirin and a statin. Furthermore, periodic reassessment of degree of stenosis may be helpful in identifying patients at higher risk of stroke. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services cover CAS for asymptomatic stenosis only in patients with >80% stenosis at high risk for CEA who are participating in postmarket approval studies. However, modern optimal medical therapy may obviate the need for carotid revascularization.