Intracranial Vascular Stenosis (ICAD): Stroke Prevention & Vascular Care at Palm Beach Neurosurgery
Intracranial Vascular Stenosis, also known as Intracranial Atherosclerotic Disease (ICAD), is a condition where arteries inside the brain become narrowed due to plaque buildup. This restricts blood flow and significantly increases the risk of ischemic stroke, especially in older adults and individuals with chronic health conditions.
Who It Affects:
ICAD can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in adults over 50 years old, particularly among African American, Hispanic, and Asian populations. Risk factors include:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Family history of stroke
Common Symptoms of ICAD:
Often, ICAD has no symptoms until a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) occurs. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Vision changes
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Severe headache with no known cause
- Confusion or personality changes.
Diagnosis & Imaging:
Our specialists use advanced imaging to diagnose ICAD, including:
- MRI/MRA and CT/CTA scans
- Transcranial Doppler ultrasound
- Cerebral angiography for detailed vessel mapping.
Treatment Options at Palm Beach Neurosurgery:
1. Medical Management
- Antiplatelet therapy (aspirin, clopidogrel)
- Blood pressure and cholesterol control
- Lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, smoking cessation)
- Statins to reduce plaque and prevent stroke recurrence [Intracrani…A Journals]
2. Endovascular Procedures
- Balloon angioplasty and stenting: Opens narrowed arteries and reinforces vessel walls
- Cerebral artery bypass surgery: Reroutes blood flow using a vessel from another part of the body
3. Advanced Therapies Under Investigation
- Dual antiplatelet therapy for high-risk patients
- Anti-inflammatory treatments targeting vascular inflammation
- Clinical trials exploring new medications and stent technologies
Facts About ICAD:
- ICAD accounts for up to 10% of strokes in the U.S.
- Stroke recurrence risk can reach 12% in the first year without proper treatment
- Early diagnosis and aggressive management can significantly reduce stroke risk.
Choose Palm Beach Neurosurgery?
Our team offers comprehensive stroke prevention and vascular care, using the latest imaging, minimally invasive techniques, and personalized treatment plans. We work closely with each patient to reduce risk and improve long-term brain health.
Call us today at (561) 433-4444 to schedule your consultation and learn more about your options for stroke prevention and ICAD treatment.
